LINKS

THE FOG LIFTS—SLOWLY

On the morning of January 11, 2012 I had a stroke around 7:45 a.m. while at the gym (no cracks about “trying to be healthy”).  I had a usual routine which I followed 5 mornings a week.   I was almost through.  I walked about 5 feet to my next-to-the-last machine, but I could not figure out what to do.  I did not “feel bad”—I just could not focus my eyes or decide what to do.  I just could not make the familiar machine work.  After pausing a couple of minutes, the situation did not improve.  I decided to drive home.

By now I moved with hesitation—quite slowly.  I checked out, went to my truck, and started it—yet three attempts could not locate the gears.  Finally, I decided to go back in and tell a friend at check-in what was happening. 

I felt fine, but my eyes would not work together.  Within minutes friends and Joyce (my wife) were there, and I was taken to the hospital.  Things become a blur after that.  About all I remember is wondering why everyone was so concerned.  Had I known how high my blood pressure was (it has never been high), I would have been concerned, too!

In less than two days, much treatment, and an excellent physical response, I was released—memory gaps, confusion, and all.  Thanks to a God of blessings; good doctors with a good medical staff; an excellent wife; and prayerful, concerned friends, I am slow but doing fine (okay, I am not slow, just impatient).

Thanks for all the prayers, cards, and expressions of concern! 

David Chadwell
Jan. 23, 2012  *  Fort Smith, AR