Help Merrin McHugh Start a New Life Post-Stroke!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Even just sign up for my newsletter!

https://www.merrinmchugh.com/

Thanks,

Merrin