22/05/2025
The one thing I wish we didn’t have in common:
We both had a stroke.
I met Karly in a Zumba class 16 years ago. We were new moms, passionate about health, wellness, and movement—and became fast friends. The kind of friendship that clicks instantly, full of laughs, quirky similarities, and a shared love of learning everything we could to feel our best.
Karly became a yoga teacher—featured on the cover of Yoga Journal—and a pelvic floor expert. I became a personal trainer, barre instructor, and wellness educator. Between us? Probably 20+ certifications. 🤓 Always learning. Always wanting to know more.
Karly moved to LA before I had my stroke, 11 years ago. I remember her shock when she found out—and the beautiful care package she sent after my heart surgery. Neither of us ever imagined she’d have a stroke, too. But a year ago, she did. And then heart surgery.
And even more frightening—she was sent home from the ER. Karly had lost vision, felt dizzy, and was losing movement on one side of her body. But the doctors said it was just a panic attack. It wasn’t. It was a stroke.
Since then, we’ve talked often—about recovery, advocacy, and what we wish more people knew. When we saw each other in Nashville, we both agreed on three things to share:
👉 Know the signs of stroke—but also know every stroke looks different. You may have one symptom or several. If something feels off, trust your body and call 911. Visit heart.org.
👉 Be your own advocate. Especially as a woman. Karly was told it was anxiety. So many women are. If you’re not okay, insist on testing. Don’t downplay your symptoms. Don’t settle for assumptions.
👉Health doesn’t always look the way you think it should. Being thin, fit, or glowing doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. You can “look healthy” and still have health risks. And sometimes, that very appearance causes doctors—and even ourselves—to overlook what’s really going on.
We’re sharing our story this Stroke Awareness Month to spread awareness and to say trust your body, ask questions, never be afraid to advocate for your health. ❤️
