For stroke survivors and supporters looking for real recovery insights. Survivor Science Sparks dives into the tools, science, and ideas that make a difference. Each week, expect insights, hard-won truths, and practical ideas to fuel your path forward. From groundbreaking research to real-life wins, I’m here to spark curiosity, fuel conversations, and help you build strength and resilience. This is about finding what works for you and those who stand with you. No fluff, just the truth that keeps you moving.
🎇 Survivor Science Sparks: Embracing Post-Traumatic Growth
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Survivor Science Sparks is a newsletter with practical tools and hard-won insights on recovery, whether you're a stroke survivor or supporting someone on their journey. If this was forwarded to you, subscribe here so you don't miss next week's spark of motivation and practical strategies. "Recovery isn't just about returning to who you were—it's about discovering who you can become." This Week's Obsession: Post-Traumatic GrowthExperiencing a life-altering event like a stroke pushes us to redefine ourselves in ways we never imagined. Post-traumatic growth isn't about ignoring trauma; it's about transforming because of it. This transformation often happens when we stop fighting to be who we were and start embracing who we're becoming. Recovery isn't just about returning to a former self—it's about uncovering strengths and resilience that emerge through adversity. When a stroke disrupts our lives, we discover abilities we never knew we had—the fortitude to stick with therapy, the bravery to seek assistance, and the tenacity to try again. Many survivors report profound changes:
Though this change doesn't happen overnight, the impact on ourselves and those around us is lasting and profound. It's a reminder that while we can't control every circumstance, we can shape how we grow through them. Resource SpotlightFor a deeper look into post-traumatic growth, check out the article “Post-traumatic growth following acquired brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis” in Frontiers in Psychology. This review dives into how people experience positive psychological changes after brain injuries, like strokes. It explores what factors contribute to resilience and personal growth after trauma, showing that growth can emerge from even the toughest experiences. Definitely worth a read! Weekly Challenge: Embrace a Hard ThingIdentify one challenge in your recovery journey:
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Feeling stuck? Reach out by replying to this email; I'm here to help support you in any way I can Podcast EpisodesIn this inspiring episode of the Recovery After Stroke podcast, Bill Gasiamis sits down with Will Schmierer, a remarkable stroke survivor who shares his transformative journey. Will discusses overcoming an ischemic stroke, managing life with multiple sclerosis (MS), and his powerful decision to quit alcohol for better health. Learn how resilience, mindset shifts, and healthier lifestyle choices helped him rebuild after significant health challenges. This episode is a must-watch for stroke survivors, caregivers, and those seeking motivation and insight into recovery and personal growth. Discover key strategies for rehabilitation, emotional support, and lifestyle transformation. Tune in and be inspired by Will’s incredible journey from alcohol and stroke to strength and resilience.
In this first Survivor Science Soundbite, I’m bringing you a quick dive into a topic that’s getting attention in recovery science: psychedelics—specifically psilocybin, the active compound in ‘magic mushrooms’—and its potential role in stroke recovery. We’ll talk about some emerging research on psilocybin’s impact on brain health, neuroplasticity, and how it could someday support emotional and physical resilience post-stroke. Plus, a reminder about this month’s Mid-month Meetup on Thursday, November 14, at 6 PM Eastern—an open, welcoming space for all survivors and supporters to connect and share insights. Head to survivorscience.com for details. Let’s kick off the week with something new to think about! Final Wrap UpRemember, recovery isn’t just about getting back to where you were. It’s about finding new strength, resilience, and purpose along the way. Each week, we’ll explore ways to help you grow through this journey, not just go through it. If you’re ever feeling stuck, reach out—I’m always here to talk and help. Thank you for being part of Survivor Science Community and the Survivor Science Sparks Newsletter. New here? I'm Will 👋New here? I'm Will. I'm a 6'8" stroke survivor, MS warrior, and a new runner—after 39 years of hating it. I've gone from a wheelchair to running thousands of miles a year, and I share what I've learned about stroke recovery and life the hard way, through trial, error, and conversations with fellow survivors. I'm a lot—but also a lot of fun—and I definitely don't do bullshit. I'm East Coast through and through, and I'm here to help you tackle recovery with grit, honesty, and a little humor. |
Survivor Science Sparks 🎇
For stroke survivors and supporters looking for real recovery insights. Survivor Science Sparks dives into the tools, science, and ideas that make a difference. Each week, expect insights, hard-won truths, and practical ideas to fuel your path forward. From groundbreaking research to real-life wins, I’m here to spark curiosity, fuel conversations, and help you build strength and resilience. This is about finding what works for you and those who stand with you. No fluff, just the truth that keeps you moving.