Stroke at age 40 - very rare

Matt Tonak suffered a rare and severe stroke at the age of 40 due to a vertebral artery dissection (VAD). VAD occurs in 1 in 100,000 people in the United States to adults younger than 45.

 

His right side of his body is paralyzed including facial paralysis on the right side of his face for now. He can see 50% in his right eye and 50% in his left eye. We are optimistic that intense PT, OT and speech therapy will allow him to be as self sufficient as possible at home. I work as a career nanny and do not make enough income to support the three of us. So any donations are greatly appreciated.

 

Matt will be receiving intense stroke recovery OT, PT and speech therapy at Abbott Northwest Hospital in the Courage Kenny Unit.

 

We have an 8 (soon to be 9 on December 22) year old son who thinks the world of his dad. They love playing video games, skateboarding and going on outdoor hiking adventures.

 

Matt had brain surgery about 6 years ago. A walnut size cavernous malformation was discovered in his brain. It was bleeding, making him sick for half a year. He made a full recovery with no damage to his mind or body.

 

I will be doing updates on this page as well as Matt’s FB page. If you prefer to donate through Venmo, our family account is Matt-Tonak

 

Thank you from myself, Matt, Link and our Pomeranian Indy.