Quantum Love, Loss and Living on as A Mother: The Fentanyl Epidemic with Dr. Laura Berman

Julie sits down with Nancy Spano, author of "Stroke of Love." Nancy shares her deeply moving story as a stroke and cancer survivor, wife, mother, and advocate. The episode dives deep into Nancy's near-death experience, her remarkable recovery, and the life-changing lessons she gained. Listeners will hear about the symptoms Nancy experienced before her stroke, the emotional impact on her family, and how her brush with death gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

Nancy Spano’s Story: www.strokeoflovebook.com

• Nancy suffered a stroke at age 46 in 2019.
• She describes the week leading up to her stroke, highlighting changes in her vision, behavior, and cognitive functions.
• Nancy recounts her near-death experience, including a profound spiritual moment where she felt guided to return and share her story.

Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke (as experienced by Nancy). Recognizing stroke symptoms early is crucial. Nancy’s story highlights real-world warning signs that saved her life:

Vision Changes:

• Nancy experienced loss of peripheral vision in her right eye. She noticed she couldn’t parallel park as usual (even referencing, “I couldn’t parallel park because I couldn’t. The peripheral vision in my right eye was gone.”).

Personality & Cognitive Changes:

• Her personality shifted—becoming irritable, frustrated, and more detached than usual. Her husband noticed the change (“My personality was changing... I wanted to unzip myself from myself.”).

Difficulty with Everyday Tasks:

• Nancy found herself unable to perform ordinary activities. She sat down to clean her vacuum but couldn’t remember how, leading to fear and frustration.

Confusion in Familiar Settings:

• Grocery shopping became overwhelming—she forgot why she was there, what she needed, and became anxious when unable to process labeled aisles.

Sudden Physical Symptoms:

• She lost control over the right side of her body, experiencing paralysis and an inability to use her right arm and leg.

Panic Attacks and Emotional Overwhelm:

• Nancy describes a panic attack in the store, feeling the urge to curl up and cry.

Seizure and Loss of Awareness:

• As her husband called 911, Nancy experienced a seizure and drifted in and out of consciousness.

Medical Causes

• Nancy’s stroke was ultimately linked to high blood pressure exacerbated by a medication (Effexor). She notes she was not informed about the risk or need to monitor blood pressure on this medication.

Why Awareness Matters

Nancy’s journey underscores the importance of recognizing and acting on stroke symptoms, especially in younger individuals or those who might dismiss early warning signs. Quick response saved Nancy’s life.

Common Signs of Stroke to Watch For (based on Nancy's account and general medical advice):

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg—especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding
• Sudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause

If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Time is critical.

LEARN MORE HERE: Stroke Of Love

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