Stroke Survivor of the Month -
JANUARY / FEBRUARY - page 3

Larry Batchie
Elmsford, NY

When I felt strong enough, I still went out on calls as a fireman about 2 days a week and did some other odd jobs like deliveries, etc., so I kept myself busy. But I had to let the fire department go because it was just too much for me. Now I work as a business office manager. I drive, walk where I want to walk and do pretty much what I want to do. But if I try to do too much in one day, I get hit with fatigue.

I went to my neurologist one day and saw the advertisement on the wall for a stroke support group and I was interested. My doctor had never told me about the group and I wasn't talking to anybody about my problems. I'd just broken up with my girlfriend. I'd gone for psychiatric help for about three months, but it didn't do me any good. It just wasn't the right personality fit. I was a little nervous going to the first meeting, but when I walked out I was so impressed. I walked out feeling great because there were people who understood me there. It's not like you have neighbors who've gone through the same thing.

There are nights when I can't sleep and it's on my mind the whole time, but that's very rare for me and I've chosen not to feel sorry for myself. When I do feel down I have certain tricks that I play on myself to snap me out of it. So I basically feel well adjusted now. Whatever people see that they don't like or want to stare at - that's their problem. I'm making the best of what I've got."