Debra Meyerson and Steven Zuckerman made a special stop in Michigan recently as they cycle across America, spreading awareness about stroke, aphasia and recovery with Stroke Across America.
They stopped in Ann Arbor and Detroit during their 4,300-mile journey to share their personal stories and help others understand what it’s like to live with stroke. The ride began in Astoria, Oregon and will end in Boston on August 27. The Meyersons’ also have ties to the area, as Debra is from Metro Detroit and taught at the University of Michigan. There are two other riders (both also survivors of brain injuries) who are cycling with the Meyersons, Michael Obel-Omia and Whitney Hardy.
Many events are casual get-togethers, to allow the Stroke Across America team to connect with friends, family and local supporters while on their journey. The Ann Arbor visit took place at the Erratic Ale Co. in Dexter, MI. Dr. Carol Persad, director of the University of Michigan Aphasia Program, spoke about how powerful aphasia programs are, and highlighted how aphasia affects communication, not one’s intelligence.
After surviving a stroke in 2010, she wrote a book about her experience with therapy, aphasia and her new identity, called Identity Theft- Rediscovering Ourselves after Stroke. She and her husband/care partner Steve then founded the nonprofit organization, Stroke Onward to further their work, and also created the Stroke Across America program.
To learn more about their journey, check out these local articles:
Some images from the event.
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- Steve and Debra
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- Dr. Carol Speaking
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- Michael
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- Whitney
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- Debra’s Book
