In this episode, Joe chats with our friend and fellow stroke survivor Zavdy Ortega who just celebrated her 4-year stroke anniversary or stroke-iversary as we call it. They chat about her experience having a stroke while being a mother and how finding community was key to her recovery. Zavdy shares her incredible story of losing 1/4 of her brain and skull which helped save her life. Plus, she’s also a big nerd like us and shares details about her Star Wars-themed wedding. If this episode resonates and you’re looking for community, please connect with us on our socials!

Family is not always the one you were born with. In this episode, Joe goes solo talking about his perspective on family, especially post-brain injury. He dives into his own family and upbringing from moving around a lot to losing touch to now reconnecting with long-lost family and the hope it has given him. He talks about the importance of having a “chosen” family including friends, survivors, and loved ones who have been key to his recovery. Do you have a “chosen” family? Please share with us on our socials!