Hi Everyone,
This has been a challenging year. Unfortunately, Corey’s had several setbacks and each feel like we’re going UP the Down escalator.
Corey had her first set back in the beginning of the year. She was having trouble swallowing and we discovered her right vocal cords are partially paralyzed. We’re not entirely sure what caused that to happen. As Corey says, “It’s a mystery to me”!
June 1st, a 911 call for “an episode” the Doctors could not clearly diagnose. It was either a suspected seizure, or could have been a possible mini-stroke. The residual effects for Corey’s movement and speech have us leaning towards stroke. She’s still a bit slurred, especially when she’s tired, but when she slows down, she enunciates well. She’s lost movement in her left hand and arm, and she had some minor drag to her left foot.
Unfortunately, we caught covid in August, and in September another 911 call for a severe breakthrough seizure; according to the latest research, breakthrough seizures appear to be linked to covid in people with an epileptic history.
On a lighter note; while in the hospital waiting for tests, Corey (feeling hungry) asked me if we ate dinner. I jokingly replied, “No, you chose to have a seizure instead”. She looked at me with a small grin and said, “Poor choice”!
This year has been hard ~ ‘early days’ hard. I was struggling with the composition of this update and asked Corey what we should share. We looked at this year’s list of activities and trips, along with every new ‘challenge’. She was quiet as she processed and then added, “it has been a hard year. I’m frustrated when I can’t do things. I don’t like being confused when I don’t know what’s happening or can’t remember things. However, no matter how tough it is, I refuse to give in. One step might take me backwards but I wake up and keep trying. We keep learning new ways to help me. And we still get to do fun things together. It really is growth in the end, which is all I want”.
Once again, she grounds me. Yes, this year we’ve ‘learned a lot’ from the challenges that were painful, stressful and overwhelming, but we also have to celebrate the humor and the moments of joy we’ve had along with those struggles. It’s all part of growth.
Our mantra remains steadfast ~ NEVER GIVE UP and NEVER GIVE IN xoxo
Hugs and prayers coming your way – every day.
Thanks for update. Sorry to hear that you’ve had a tough period. I am
In awe of your determination (Corey, Marie and family). Sending you hugs and bright thoughts.
Perfect!
I love the “never give up” attitude- that’s what keeps you and us going! Cheers for a good year! Brenda
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
So sorry to hear about this past year’s troubles. Makes me so sad. Not sure how you do it, marie, but keep at it. You are such a role model.
❤️ from the Hopkins family , Eric & Karen What a loving & caring mother you are with Corey and your family . We are always here for you !
Corey and Marie,
You both never cease to amaze everyone.
Prayers and Love, Patrice DeMaria
Awesome Corey! Keep fighting girl!💪🏻💪🏻
You are amazing women. Always an inspiration to us mere mortals!
I love you both, all!
Marie, sending you and Corey lots of love as you continue on your journey- never give up and never give in. You are both an inspiration. Xoxo
On your toughest days still remember you make the biggest impact on random people who come across your story! Sorry to hear about the setbacks! I had to relearn stuff too, the confusion is tough but mama is right. NEVER give up! Sending love and humor which make everything way more fun. I noticed that massive confusion comes when I’m about to gain something back….sometimes. Hope a good wave comes soon, all of you are so inspiring!
Corey and Marie, you’re amazing !! No matter what comes your way I’m sure you’ll manage. I understand it’s not easy at all, but life throws us curve balls every day and we just have to learn that we can either run from them or embrace what we’re given and I’m sure you know this all too well without me saying it. Honestly, I ran all my life and I’m just learning to turn around and face my fears, as you have taught me also, ty !!
Marie, I commend your dedication and love for your beautiful daughter !
God bless all of you ! 💞
There is no greater love than a mother and a daughter! Best friends!! You two melt me!!