Amber is such a sweet girl. I thought I had met her before, and she reminded me that I took pictures of her years ago at her brother and my friend Kerri’s wedding! Small world.
She has a pretty crazy story. Home by herself with a 4 month old and has a stroke… here is her story in her words below:
Why do you want to be a part of this project?
- To raise awareness of heart issues and that they can happen to women at any age.
- How have you been affected by Heart Health?
On April 20, 2017 while home alone with my four month old daughter, I had a stroke. Thankfully I knew something was wrong and I was able to call for help. I had a wonderful medical team that worked to find out why this had happened to a young otherwise healthy woman. After many tests my doctors found that I had a hole in my heart, which had been there since birth, but had allowed me to have a stroke. They were able to repair the hole and I have returned to my old self mostly. My husband and I are now expecting our second child and I am so thankful for this new life after such an unexpectedly tough year. And also thankful I get to continue to be a mom to my now 1year old.
- What do you want people to know?
I want people to know that heart issues can affect all types of people, especially young people. We so often think these problems just happen when you’re older and they don’t. I also want people to be more aware of the signs and symptoms of problems, so we can see them in ourselves and our loved ones and not wait to get help.
- How has this all changed your life?
It drastically changed how I thought my daughter’s first year of life would look. While my impairments aren’t seen by most people around me they are always there and I’ve had to learn how to live as my new self. That’s been the toughest part, accepting the new me as a wife, a mother, and as just myself.
- What’s the most important thing in the world to you?
My family! I have the most supportive and caring husband, sweet and funny little girl, and a new baby on the way. I’m so thankful for them and my extended family that has helped carry us through this.
- If this was your last week on earth, how would you live it?
With my family, enjoying every minute with them.
- What are you passionate about?
Using my story to help raise awareness, so that others can get the help they need sooner. I’m so thankful I still get to enjoy living my life with my family, I want that for others too.
- What do you love about yourself?
This has changed a lot over the past couple of years, but probably being a good friend to others and helping them out when they need it.
- What is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for you?
Probably all the help and meals my family received after my stroke and surgery.
Thank you so much, Amber for being a part of this project. You are a truly brave, amazing, beautiful woman!
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