Sara Rizzo’s Stroke Recovery

Hi, my name is Sara and I’m raising funds to help with expenses related to a spontaneous cervical artery dissection and a stroke in my midbrain.

On 10/3/22, I started having symptoms of a stroke. I dismissed them as everyday ailments and reluctantly went to the ER on 10/13. I was admitted to the hospital on 10/13 and discharged on 10/25/22.

My prognosis is hopeful but it will take a lot of work to recover. My second week in the hospital, I was receiving OT, PT, and ST every day. I’m now doing these rehabs outpatient weekly. 

The stroke impacted the nerves going to my tongue. I can’t taste, swallow, or speak well. I’m working with a speech therapist to help me swallow and talk again.

Because my stroke was in the midbrain, it impacted both sides of my body. My right side is weak and my left side lost coordination. I’m very shaky and struggle to speak when I’m tired. My balance was impacted by the stroke so I’m working with PT and OT to stay upright and learning to walk straight. I also lost most of my vision in my left eye and it’s uncertain if this will come back or not.

I’m home now but I can’t drive. Christopher is taking me to all my rehab and doctor’s appointments (3+/week). Work has become near impossible for me right now and Christopher is missing a lot of work to take care of me.

We have insurance but a high deductible/out of pocket max. Insurance is now covering 75% of most expenses but there are many things insurance won’t cover. We have needed to make home modifications for me and I’m on a blood thinner not covered by insurance; over $500/month.

We are blessed in many ways and hopeful for a recovery. I’m told because I’m so young my chances of recovery are good but I need to keep working hard at rehab especially during the first 6 months after the stroke.

Many people have asked how they can help and we greatly appreciate the thoughts, prayers, texts, flowers, and visits. Even with health insurance the medical expenses are daunting. We greatly appreciate any support as we try to get back on our feet.