Dina Kruckenberg - Kurt, the Stroke Hero
Dina’s husband recognized her stroke and has stood by her side ever since. She wanted to share their story to recognize Kurt as a Stroke Hero in honor of World Stroke Day on October 29.
I don't know what would've happened to me five years ago if my husband Kurt hadn't recognized the signs of stroke.
I don't know what would've happened to me five years ago if my husband Kurt hadn't recognized the signs of stroke. It was Sunday June 1, a few days after I had my gall bladder removed. I still wasn't feeling well and knew something was "off."
I went to the kitchen and remember telling him I didn't feel well, so he asked me to sit by him on the couch while we watched TV. We were eating chips when suddenly I couldn't swallow the chip. It sat on my tongue, and my head felt like it was bobbing. I knew something was really wrong but couldn't process the thought. I just felt "heavy" and confused. The chip fell out and he got me some water. He handed me the glass and I tried to drink, but it dribbled down my face. He then asked me to squeeze his hands and to speak. I tried to tell him what I wanted for lunch, but knew nothing that made sense was coming out. I just wanted to take a nap.
He knew it was a stroke and the next thing I knew, I was in the ER. I recall watching him talking to the doctor and seeing the concern on his face. That same year in November, the day after my father died, we were eating lunch and Kurt asked how my lunch was. I tried to answer him but once again, I was "heavy" and couldn't speak. My bite of sandwich bobbed on my tongue. He immediately saw the signs of stroke again. I want to recognize Kurt as my stroke hero. He recognized the signs and took immediate action. I can't even think of what would've happened to me if he hadn't taken swift action both times.
Thank you, Kurt, I can never thank you enough!
