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This book chronicles the year-long journey of Mia Russell, who, at the age of 37, experienced a massive stroke. Throughout her recovery, her mother, Myrtle, played a crucial role as her caregiver and healing companion. The narrative explores the numerous physical and emotional challenges they faced together and emphasizes the positive impact of gratitude journaling in navigating such life-altering experiences. Additionally, the book provides thought-provoking prompts that encourage readers to embark on their journeys of self-discovery through the practice of gratitude journaling.
Mia was a vibrant nurse and part-time student known around the area for her unique crochet designs. On January 9, 2017, at the age of 37, she experienced a massive stroke with devastating effects. It wiped out her speech, memory, and learning centers of her brain, left her with right-side paralysis, and caused peripheral blindness in her right eye. While the stroke left her permanently disabled, thanks to the transformative power of gratitude, it did not leave her broken. Her mother, Myrtle, a public health administrator at the time, became her caregiver and healing companion.
The Stroke That Touched My Heart offers the reader:
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117 gratitude "blessons" (lessons and blessings) experienced by Mia and Myrtle
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A deeper understanding of how gratitude can transform lives
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An introduction to gratitude journaling featuring 117 gratitude journaling prompts to help the reader embark on the incredible gratitude journaling journey
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Practical advice on navigating the healthcare system after a stroke
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Helpful tips for caregivers and family members
Reviews
"The Stroke That Touched My Heart is a powerful work of inspiring non-fiction co-authored by Mia and Myrtle Russell, and self-described as the story of "How Gratitude Transformed a 37-Year-Old Massive Stroke Survivor". In this harrowing true-life account, we hear the story of Mia Russell through a year of survival and recovery following a severe and debilitating stroke. The practice of gratitude becomes a central feature in the lives of Mia and her mother, Myrtle, who had previously studied the benefits of journaling and practicing gratitude. As Myrtle takes you through their experiences, there are lessons to be learned about being thankful, even in some of the worst times that a person can live through"
~ K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
“Amazing Journey. This book should be on the best-seller list. Myrtle and Mia Russell lead the reader through a maze of tragedy, healing and recovery. They do this while challenging the reader to see the good in bad, and show gratitude for tragedy as well as for triumph."
~ Bill
"I just finished reading Mia and Myrtle Russell's heartfelt and enlightening book. It will help us all - highly recommended!! They take tragedy and challenge and still find a way to be thankful and find gratitude! They are authentic, genuine, courageous, vulnerable and priceless! Oh, you will be blessed! Can't wait for what comes next!"
~ Monica
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