What Stroke Survivors Wish Caregivers Knew

We’re Still Ourselves—Even If We’ve Changed

We may look or sound different. We may struggle to speak, move, or think like we used to. But deep down, we’re still us—still wanting to be loved, respected, and seen for who we are.

Small Wins Matter More Than You Know

What seems tiny to you—getting dressed, saying a full sentence, walking across a room—might feel huge to us. Celebrate the small stuff with us. It gives us hope.

Please Don’t Do Everything for Us

We need help, but we also need independence. Let us try. Let us fail safely. It helps us feel human, not helpless.

Emotional Pain Is Real—Even If We Don’t Talk About It

We’re grieving what we lost. Sometimes we’re scared, angry, or numb. Just being there without needing to fix it means the world.

Talk to Us—Not Just About Us

Even if speech is hard, we want to be included. Look us in the eye. Ask us what we think. Make space for our voice.

We Notice When You’re Exhausted—And We Worry

We know caregiving is hard. It’s okay to take breaks, set boundaries, and care for yourself. You being well helps us feel safer and less guilty.

Connection Heals—Even in Silence

Sometimes words fail us. But touch, eye contact, a quiet moment together—that’s how we feel your love.