Kit Morrison Bio

BIOGRAPHY: Kit Morrison

I realize many have battled life-threatening illness; although, each case is unique. I survived a major catastrophe and put my shattered life back together. My story is detailed in two books I wrote --Helpless Not Hopeless & HANDRhAP,

Everyone has a story to tell--especially, if they have endured a major illness--l am no different. In May 1985 I was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The tumor was removed m June l985, as were portions of my life. I am left with memories.

My wife Cindy and I were buyers for the largest chain of fashion clothing stores on the west coast. Our jobs took us to fashion capitals throughout the world. The jobs were stressful. We both relieved stress through gardening, and I used athletic competition as a stress-reducer. I competed in upper-level amateur sports, and referred to myself as an, "Athletic fashion-plate." I would learn later being in shape and a non-smoker probably saved my life. I was in my mid-30's, drove a classic Studebaker, had a nice marine-view home in Seattle, and skippered our motorboat. Life was good.

However, there was one small flaw in our smoothly running lives. I developed chronic neck aches, and they became increasingly frequent. The neck pain intensified. After searching to find a doctor who diagnosed my problem correctly, I had some luck. I described my symptoms, was given a battery of tests, and the doctor concluded I needed an MRI. Several days later, he found I had a brain tumor...the size of a lemon. I was devastated! After regaining my composure, he told me, "99% of such tumors are benign." I had always been so healthy--now this--as I left his office I felt strangely relieved, the tumor had a name...Acoustic Neuroma. Had I known I would be so debilitated by this operation, I would have prepared for it better, but it is difficult to prepare for the unexpected.

After several l-o-n-g days, I checked into the hospital. Later, a student from a local university wanted to interview me about my thoughts and feelings, regarding the upcoming operation. I quite candidly answered her questions. She remarked, "I'm going to track your recovery, and speak to you later." I never saw her again.

The operation was long--thirteen hours--l was totally unaware. My thoughts and vision were lost in another realm. Cindy began to keep a Journal, so that I would be aware of the amazing events I lived through. Life was suddenly much more complex.

Complications were many; the most serious were two massive STROKES. A vein burst in my head from extreme pressure, flooding my brainstem. I was given last rites. The doctors stopped the bleeding. Mysteriously, it began again six hours later. Again, I was administered last rites. But was merely the beginning of troubles.

You can imagine entering the hospital for an operation, expecting to return to your "normal" life within a month. I did. However, I emerged completely helpless, having to relearn life's simplest tasks. Suddenly, I was not able to walk, talk, eat, swallow, breathe, and was in constant pain. All I could do was hear...that wasn't perfect either. But, the people in my life rallied with love and support. I never dreamed I would have to face such a situation, but I did.

I have recovered mentally. Physically...another story, and I have found my niche...I wrote my story as someone who actually suffered two strokes. One book details what happened to our lives, and how we, with the support of friends & professionals, have learned how to live again. It is not only a story of dealing with a life-threatening illness, but also one of pure unconditional love. The second book explains why I was equipped to deal with a setback of this magnitude, and how life is presently...which is a quality existence...due to hard work, persistence, and recapturing independence. YOU CAN DO IT!!!

Mine is the story of triumph of the human spirit in the midst of great physical tragedy. Through friends' letters, journals, photos, and my own recollections, I tell my story of working to improve, and learning to adapt to the new life of a physically challenged person while trying to maintain a sense of self and a sense of humor.

I realize, I am just one of thousands to have suffered a horrific life-threatening episode in life; I hope this bio will help others in a seemingly hopeless situation. My books benefit anyone dealing with their own disability, or those touched by someone with a disability.

My email address is Bookskit@cs.com.

The Stroke Network, Inc.

P.O. Box 492 Abingdon, Maryland 21009