The Story of a Stroke Victim: Saddling the Beast called "Stroke" with the Gift of Family

Trantham Family Christmas 2010

I love my family. It is so rare in this day and age for one to live near most of their extended family. It is such a privilege to get together with my family over the holidays. This photo was taken this past Christmas, six years after the alarming incident with my grandma. She still struggles with the after effects of the stroke. The stroke left her seeing double--her eyes are no longer synchronized. She also has to cope with macular degeneration, and as a result of all of these she finds it very hard to read. But don't think that Dorothy Trantham lets this obstacle defeat her. Audio Bibles, taped sermons from her church, and music have become her constant companions. She has overcome that problem with class.

Another struggle my grandma has had to cope with that is common to TIA victims is numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body (National Institute of Heath). While my grandma's stroke was "light" and did not leave her paralyzed, she has experienced weakness on the left side of her body. She says that her body has learned to compensate for the weaker left half. This lack of strength has made it difficult to get around. My family bought her a walker. My dad has installed grab bars, an elevated toilet, and a shower bench in the bathroom to assist my grandma. In addition to these safety precautions, my grandpa has been very faithful to be present to help as well.

Although my grandma's motor functions have improved through through the years, she typically does not leave the house unless it is for a family get together. She recently had a very serious incident with her kidneys that led to her receiving physical and occupational therapy. The physical therapists would have her ride a stationary bicycle while working the arms and legs. She says that this was extremely helpful. She also did a dexterity exercise involving placing pegs into their appropriate holes while standing up. As a result of this recent therapy, her strength has improved enough for her to go to church regularly again! My grandma's faith is her whole world, so this recent progress has improved her quality of life.

We count each year that we've had together since the stroke as a gift from God. Near death experiences help people understand the brevity of life. The reality sets in that we are not guaranteed another breath. More than anything else, my grandma's faith has seen her through the valleys of life.

Here are a few pictures of the modifications we have made around her house.