Humor March 2002

Do You Believe in Magic?

By Rhonda Peterson

March 2002

Ladies and gentleman, let me direct your attention to this article where you will witness the skills of science, the miracles of medicine, the results of rehabilitation, the temperance of time, the spirit of healing mixed with a dash of humor, and the handiwork of God. The research and technical skills used by heart surgeons, cardiologists, neurologists, and medical team that made this moment possible, is indeed remarkable. But it took three teams, working together, to make this happen. It took the medical community, individual strength, and the blessings and miracles of the Almighty. The significance of this event may not be detected by the naked eye, but let me assure you that ten years ago I could only mutter the word "bad," which summed up my existence. I could not walk. My optic nerve remains permanently damaged but I can see, read, and most recently drive a car. The left side of my body remains affected by the stroke but I am able to move my fingers and tap my toes to the beat of a dance tune.

Performing skills that many people take for granted, I use my brain without the accompaniment of a safety net. Many of my brain cells no longer function; but I have managed to train other brain areas to take over essential tasks. This is no small task. From the initial onset of the stroke proceeded by a second stroke, followed by heart surgery, I am a testament to the achievements of medicine and miracles.

To witness the miracles, magic, and hard work of the team approach within the medical community, rehabilitation agencies, and the human spirit you need not look further than to the many other strokes survivors that are living proof of their wondrous abilities.

Without funding research there would be no new technology in surgery, medical advancements, or medications. Without funding studies there would be no TPA, the clot-busting drug. Without funding many stroke survivors would be relegated to continuous county, state, or federal programs. Without funding some stroke survivors may fall through bureaucratic cracks for lack of comprehending the various rules and quite possibly go without needed services and/or medication.

"Stroke costs the United States $30 billion annually. Direct costs, such as hospitals, physicians and rehabilitation add up to $17 billion; indirect costs, such as lost productivity, total $13 billion. The average cost per patient for the first 90 days post-stroke is $15,000, although 10 percent of the cases exceed $35,000. (PORT Study)

Four million Americans are living with the effects of stroke. Four out of every five American families will be touched by stroke," states the National Stroke Association.

Be a magician's assistant and help us help ourselves recover to a full and wonderful life.

The Stroke Network, Inc.

P.O. Box 492 Abingdon, Maryland 21009