<div>On the morning of April 2, 2023, I suffered a massive stroke in my brain stem. You can still read my updates with a summary of what I've been through but I wanted to change this to reflect my life now.
</div>
<div>Yes, the stroke was life-changing. Yes the odds of it happening at all were low, and of my survival at all (let alone with all my senses intact) the same. They say you have 3 hours after a stroke to make it to the hospital. I was alone in my apartment without help for almost 3 days.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>However, through a month in the hospital, 6 weeks in in-patient rehab on a stroke ward, another few months of out-patient rehab while living with my parents, and now a year back in my apartment on my own - I am trying to start a new business and a new life.
</div>
<div>To look at me, surface level, from the outside - many people assume I'm fine. It's true I am doing very well physically, and I've come a long way from pointing to tape with written instructions on the end of my hospital bed, unable to speak, unable to move my arms. However, a Traumatic Brain Injury is a mysterious thing, and recovery- both physical and mental - is a constant battle. It's my new normal. It takes more energy and I have to think about things I never had to before. The scar tissue in my trachea means my voice is a constant battle.
</div>
<div>Through all this I am starting a business and trying to get back on my feet. I still want to work in wine and restaurants, though a new way is necessary. Keeping work-life balance, and maintaining my health is #1. I am trying to hustle for this new business, but also maintain practices in my recovery that are important for me to still find time for.
</div>
<div>I am so so grateful for this GFM and all your donations that helped me in my recovery. Now I am asking that you invest in my future. Not just in the form of funds here, but any wine-related jobs you may have or opportunities to bring to me. This is the next Chapter and I'm very excited for it, but I may need a little help along the way.
</div>
<div>Even just sign up for my newsletter!
</div>
<div><a href="https://www.merrinmchugh.com/" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.merrinmchugh.com/</a>
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Thanks,
</div>
<div>Merrin 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div><br />
</div>

Tran Bronstein

Anonymous

Josh Josephson

Alfred Page

Steven Paulino

Holly Curtis

Sarah Wright

Jen Agg

Mike Rachlis

Raina Douris

Regan Crawley

Lisa Malisch

Nicholas Greaves

Ellen Silverthorne

Sandra McHugh

JASON Axmith

Help Merrin McHugh Start a New Life Post-Stroke!

Help Merrin McHugh Start a New Life Post-Stroke!

Still $28,533 to go. Help us build momentum.