Trip Tips for StrokeGirl

“Trip Tips for StrokeGirl”

As many of you know, I had a hemorrhagic stroke in November of 2021. The life changes from that point on have been monumental.

I had to give up working at jobs I loved. I do not attend dinners or birthday gatherings much anymore. Once a bright socialite, I have been tucked away for two years working to regain movements and strength, relearning basic skills, and attempting to reclaim my life. Along the way I have had broken bones and a broken spirit. Feelings of absolute defeat have been painful and therefore heartbreaking.

But there are parts of me that I have not lost. I have enough of them to keep me trying to actually live this life.

As much as I miss it, I will not be back at work anytime in the near future. Dialysis takes up the majority of three of my weekdays and stroke fatigue is very real. I am on disability. I am grateful to have it however, there has yet to be any money left at the end of the month.

I have been invited by friends who live in New Jersey to visit in the spring. This will be my first solo flight since the stroke. It will be an opportunity to have independence and self reliance. And let us not forget, I will be safe while having fun with longtime friends.

As I am planning this journey, I am figuring out what I’ll need.

Before traveling I aim to have money to put toward a new walker for myself, the cost of a plane ticket, and some secret savings should I have unexpected dues. Any I have leftover will be to start my try at using bionics (varying brands for the hand and foot). Not a penny will go unused!

Any monetary “Trip Tips” would be greatly appreciated.

I hope you all know the extent of my gratitude.

I thank you in advance.

Love,

Grady “StrokeGirl”