Chasing Your Goals Post-stroke with Austin and Chris Harrell | No Plateau Podcast - Episode 12

What Austin and his father Chris Harrell thought was a typical July day in North Carolina became a life-changing moment when 18-year-old Austin suffered a stroke.
On today's episode, they discuss Austin’s stroke, Chris’ transition to becoming a caregiver, what he felt when his son was in the hospital, and how their dynamic influenced Austin’s recovery process.
“The idea of walking into the recovery room to see my son after that surgery, I had a very hard time. I really couldn’t bring myself to do it initially.” - Chris (13:54)
They go on to share their commitment to Austin’s recovery, the improvements they saw along the way, and how Austin’s decision to attend college classes, read out loud, and engage with other students helped him develop his speech and communication skills.
“The big thing about rehab, it has to be meaningful. You can’t just go in there and do reps. It’s not just about doing reps; it’s got to be meaningful reps.” - Chris (27:39)
Their journey is one of dedication, hope, and inspiration, so listen in to hear about Austin and Chris’ impactful story.
“Believe you can reach your goals, and never give up.” - Austin (39:51)
In This Episode
0:00 Introduction
1:24 Chris shares Austin’s stroke experience
6:37 Austin’s condition post-stroke and transition to Duke
13:38 Following the craniotomy and into the next few weeks
18:51 Austin’s Atlanta team
20:07 Seeing improvements and creating routine for recovery
26:44 Chris’ caregiver training and Austin’s schooling
31:04 How Austin’s doing today
33:02 Austin’s future plans
34:33 Chris offers a few words of encouragement to caregivers
Our Guests
Stroke survivor Austin Harrell and his father Chris Harrell live in North Carolina and are an inspiring illustration of the power of dedication, love, support, and endurance. After Austin survived a stroke at 18 years old, he and his family worked hard in his recovery journey with great success, and he also holds an associate's degree. Currently, Austin works at a coffee shop called Esteamed Coffee which offers individuals with disabilities a chance for meaningful employment.
Resources & Links
Friends of Austin Harrell / austinblakeharrellmedi...
35th Triangle Heart Ball / 209516630107770
Austin Sings the National Anthem for the Durham Bulls Baseball Club / 697250221352807
Henry Hoffman on LinkedIn / henry-hoffman-01a09312
Pete Durand on LinkedIn / petedurand
Saebo’s Stroke Caregiver Support Group / 423786023009376
Saebo’s Stroke Survivor Support Group / saebostrokesupport
Download your FREE Saebo Exercise Guide here:
www.saebo.com/stroke-exercise...
SUBSCRIBE AND FOLLOW US!
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/ saeboforstroke
Saebo, Inc. is a medical device company primarily engaged in the discovery, development, and commercialization of affordable and novel clinical solutions designed to improve mobility and function in individuals suffering from neurological and orthopedic conditions. With a vast network of Saebo-trained clinicians spanning six continents, Saebo has helped over 500,000 clients around the globe achieve a new level of independence.

[@debsh6346]

Take care! I had my stroke at 63; can't imagine having one at 18. Everything I've heard says younger stroke patients recover better than older patients.
Wishing you a full recovery and a happy life.

[@rebekahlove6398]

Wow! 😱 … he’s so young 😢 I was 30 & I thought I was young