- Wallenberg Syndrome
- Interviews
Steve Vasilion's interview
How did all start?
I had a stent placed in my left vertebral artery to correct an aneurysm. 9 months later it occluded, causing the stroke.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
It was diagnosed within a few days of occurrence.
For what medical specialties have you been treated? What has been the most useful specialty for your?
I had speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy for the month I was hospitalized. Speech and physical therapy continued on an outpatient basis for another three months. The speech therapy was critical for improving my memory issues and overall cognitive skills. Physical therapy helped me relearn to walk and improve my balance and overall physical performance.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Learning the importance of sleep and rest. And learning to allow myself ample time to heal.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Brain fatigue limits my work days. Balance issues become worse when I am tired or stressed.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
I have been incredibly fortunate that my friends and family have been very supportive. We have drawn closer as a result of this.
What things have you stopped doing?
I cannot work as many hours yet. I have to monitor my physical activities: no ladders for example.
What do you think about the future?
I am very optimistic about my recovery.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
My recovery is only in months. I improved significantly in the first 6 months then leveled off the next 4. Month 11 has brought a burst of recovery, which is very encouraging.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
Silly question. This is my life and my new “normal”. What-if questions are irrelevant.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
We only have one life. We are dealt our hand based on genetics and environment. Embrace it and reach as far as you can. Let no one or no event limit you.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
Same answer as above.
