But here’s the miracle: my doctors told me that while only 50% of people survive a ruptured brain aneurysm, I am in the 25% who walk away with no lasting deficits. They were amazed by how well I recovered.

That’s not to say it was easy. I struggled with vision issues and motor control, particularly on my left side. I’d try to walk straight but veered left no matter how hard I tried. The dizziness was overwhelming at times. Toward the end of my hospital stay, the biggest concern was my brain doppler readings, they were high and getting higher, raising the risk of vasospasm and another stroke. That was the first time I felt true fear during my hospital stay. Would I survive a second stroke? Would it be worse?

Recovery has been difficult. I was on steroids to reduce brain inflammation, but they brought severe mental and emotional stress. Coming off them was even harder. Adjusting to life at home wasn’t easy either, I had to sleep propped up on pillows and barely got any rest that first week.

There’s so much more I could share, I’ll leave it here for now. What matters most is this: God was watching over me. I am deeply grateful to still be here, to be able to tell my story.

And I could not have made it through without Jamie. He was my rock, my constant, my caregiver, my lifesaver. He literally saved my life.

My experience inspired Jamie to launch Healing Lens Photography, a venture filled with passion and dedicated to survivors of medical, trauma and life-altering events which are both very near and dear to my heart. They deserve to be recognized for their Strength and Survival because believe me when I say I know how hard it is to do both!!

If you’re a survivor, just know, you’re not alone. And you are stronger than you think.