156: A Stroke Recovery Journey And Living Your Life On Purpose With Kristen Traverse

On today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with the lovely @kristentraverse. Kristen is a Registered Nurse, wife, mama of two boys, podcaster, a private Nursing Consultant, a recovering stroke patient, and so much more! Five years ago, when she was just 31 years old, Kristen suffered a severe stroke which at the time, was misdiagnosed as a migraine. After many tests, she was diagnosed with having severe Broca's Aphasia and Apraxia. Her stroke left her unable to speak or communicate words for two years and she was also incapable of performing familiar movements on command. Her story of how this unfolds and how she got to where she is today is incredible, and I can’t wait for you to listen! Following the stroke, she adjusted her career path to better suit her “new norm,” and decided to pour her love for being an RN into becoming a Private Nursing Consultant. Kristin is now working to change the narrative for stroke patients and those dealing with chronic illness or brain injury.On this episode we dive into: Kristen’s journey on the day she had her stroke, her diagnosis, how she started on her road to recovery, and how she’s doing today living in her new norm. Finding your “why” in a hard situation to use that to propel you forward through tough times. Putting yourself first when your body and mind need you to - as well as asking for and accepting help when you need it.Being more intentional with your words, because you just never know when the last time you will get to speak to someone might be. Letting go of the constant worry and doubt that you’re not good enough.Coming from a place of love instead of fear when you make decisions. Building a legacy instead of a resume.The take-home: Kristen shared her favourite quote, “If you talk, you’re only repeating what you already know, but if you listen, you might learn something new.” From these words, she decided what she wanted her life to look like after her stroke. “You have to decide if you are going to act out of fear or love. I am very intentional with my time and what I want to do to bring more meaning to my life and other’s lives as well. Helping other people is so important to me, and no matter what I do, I know my boys are proud of me - which is ultimately what matters to me the most.” Do the best you can to pour your time into purposeful and meaningful things and into things that you love doing, because life is much too short to be anything but happy.Get in touch with Kristin: Website: https://kristentraverse.comInstagram: @kristentraverseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristen.traversePodcast: My Why RevolutionJoin The Muvement, the wellness program to help you achieve the health goals you desire. Book a call with me now https://calendly.com/muvelife/introcall