Understanding Stroke Medications and Personalized Recovery

In this essential episode, host Rosa Hart, BSN, RN, SCRN sits down with Dr. Bryan Eckerle to demystify one of the most overwhelming aspects of stroke recovery: medications. If you or a loved one has ever left the hospital clutching a bag of pill bottles and wondering "Why am I taking all of these?" - this episode is for you.

Dr. Eckerle, with his expertise in stroke care and patient-centered treatment, breaks down the critical medications prescribed after stroke, explaining not just what they do, but why they matter for your recovery and long-term health. From blood thinners to cholesterol medications, we cover the science, the side effects, and the strategies for staying on track.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: January 12, 2025

Regaining Control: Pelvic Floor Therapy for Incontinence After Stroke

Incontinence after stroke is common — but highly treatable. In this episode, Lisa Cecil, P.T., DPT, pelvic floor therapist, discusses why bladder and bowel changes happen after stroke and how pelvic floor therapy can help restore control, comfort and confidence.

This podcast covers:

• How stroke impacts bladder and bowel function
• What pelvic floor therapy looks like for stroke survivors
• Techniques that improve urgency, leakage and incomplete emptying
• How therapy boosts independence and quality of life
• Practical exercises and habits you can safely start at home

Tune in for empowering, stigma-free guidance to help survivors and caregivers navigate one of the most overlooked parts of stroke recovery.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support, view our programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: Dec. 8, 2025

Women and Stroke: Recovery, Prevention and Health Equity

In this episode of "Stronger After Stroke," host Rosa Hart, BSN, R.N., SCRN, talks with Tamika Burrus, M.D., a stroke neurology specialist, about how stroke uniquely affects women. Together, they explore critical differences in how women respond to stroke treatments, such as thrombolytics (alteplase and tenecteplase) and mechanical thrombectomy, why recovery can look different for women, and what steps health care systems can take to close the gender gap in stroke outcomes.

Dr. Burrus shares insights on physical, cognitive and emotional recovery challenges that women often face after stroke. The conversation also highlights disparities in stroke rehabilitation access, follow-up care and stroke prevention — particularly among Black and Hispanic women, who face a higher risk.

Listeners will gain practical takeaways on how women can reduce their stroke risk through lifestyle changes, the importance of early screening by primary care and OB/GYN providers, and how health care professionals can improve outcomes through education, advocacy and equitable care.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How estrogen impacts the cardiovascular system
• The unique physical, cognitive and emotional recovery challenges women face after stroke
• Disparities in access to rehabilitation and follow-up care for women compared with men
• Lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce stroke risk for women at any age
• How racial and ethnic disparities affect stroke risk among Black and Hispanic women
• The role of primary care and OB/GYN providers in early stroke risk screening
• Common misconceptions about stroke in women
• The most important next steps for women recovering from stroke
• How nurses and health care professionals can improve stroke outcomes and equity

Key takeaway:Women experience stroke differently — biologically, socially and systemically. Improving prevention, early detection and equitable access to care can help save lives and support stronger recoveries.

About our guest:Tamika M. Burrus, M.D., is a stroke neurologist with Norton Neuroscience Institute. Dr. Burrus earned her medical degree from the University of Iowa in Iowa City. She completed her residency in neurology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and a fellowship in vascular neurology at the University of California, San Francisco. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology and co-author on several national guidelines for the American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association.

Dr. Burrus believes it is important to ensure that patients feel as if their interaction is a partnership. She strives to help her patients understand their brain and spine and to collaborate with her regarding the best treatment plan for them. She has specialized expertise in telemedicine and was one of the early adopters in the field of teleneurology.

Dr. Burrus is a Louisville native. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and has visited 44 U.S. states and numerous countries outside North America. Dr. Burrus also likes cooking, art and philanthropic endeavors.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: Nov. 10, 2025

Episode 35. Part 1 of 2: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Stroke

Stroke doesn't impact men and women in the same way. Understanding the difference matters in terms of risks, symptoms and prevention strategies In Part 1 of this two-part series, Rabia G. Buridi, M.D., a vascular neurologist with Norton Neuroscience Institute, talks with host Rosa Hart, BSN, R.N., SCRN, to break down what women need to know about stroke and empower them to act quickly when stroke strikes.

In this episode, you will also learn:

• Why stroke risk isn't the same for men and women.
• How life events, such as pregnancy or migraines, can impact long-term brain health.
• What "atypical" stroke symptoms look like in women — and why recognizing them early can save lives.
• Leading causes of stroke in women and how they are different from the causes for men.
• Stroke presentation and diagnosis in women, including atypical symptoms that are often missed and tips for recognizing stroke early.

About Dr. Buridi:

Dr. Buridi earned her medical degree from Trinity College Dublin in Ireland, completed her neurology residency at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Concord, New Hampshire, and completed a vascular neurology fellowship at Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois. Her philosophy centers on education, treatment and prevention — helping patients not just survive but thrive. Born and raised in Louisville, Dr. Buridi balances her career with family life and a love for experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available both virtually and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/.

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians. Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: Oct. 13, 2025

Episode 34. The Overlooked Key to Stroke Recovery: Hearing

Hearing is one of the keys to independence after a stroke. More than just sound, hearing is critical for brain health, rehabilitation and independence following a stroke.

In this episode of "Stronger After Stroke," host Rosa Hart, BSN, R.N., SCRN, talks with Virginia Dekanski, Au.D., CCC-A, about how untreated hearing changes can impact recovery and long-term cognitive health.

In this episode, you will learn:

• Why hearing loss can slow rehabilitation after a stroke.
• How balance problems are connected to hearing and the inner ear.
• The link between untreated hearing loss and increased dementia risk.
• What vestibular testing reveals about hidden dizziness or the risk of falling.
• How hearing support can protect cognition and improve quality of life.

About our guest:

Viriginia Dekanski earned her audiology doctorate from Syracuse University and her bachelor of arts degree. in cognitive psychology from the University of Virginia. Licensed in Kentucky, she holds a Certificate of Clinical Competency in Audiology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She specializes in vestibular testing and adult diagnostics.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: Sept. 8, 2025

Episode 33: Stronger After Stroke — Love, Resilience and Recovery: A Young Caregiver's Story

In this heartfelt episode of "Stronger After Stroke," host Rosa Hart welcomes Katelyn Deakins, wife of a young stroke survivor who shares her inspiring story of love and resilience amid the realities of caregiving. Katelyn shares what it was like to step almost overnight into the role of caregiver, navigating the medical system and supporting her husband's recovery while also learning to care for herself .

In this episode, Katelyn discusses:

• The emotional rollercoaster of her husband's stroke and recovery
• How sudden life changes altered their relationship
• Practical strategies for avoiding burnout that helped her successfully juggle taking care of her husband and children
• The importance of finding a community of support
• Honest advice for young caregivers feeling isolated or overwhelmed
• The lessons she learned about resilience and hope and her expectations for the future

Whether you are a caregiver , a stroke survivor or a health care professional, Katelyn's story offers insights into the hidden struggles — and unexpected strengths — of life after stroke.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians. Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: Aug. 11, 2025

Episode 32: Role Reversal – When the Child Becomes the Caregiver with Tiffany Cardwell

When a person has a stroke, life changes for family members as well. Host Rosa Hart is joined by Tiffany Cardwell, who shares a deeply personal journey of love, responsibility and unexpected role reversal after her father experienced a stroke while traveling overseas. What began as a season filled with travel plans quickly turned into a crisis when her father suddenly was stranded in the Philippines, requiring rehabilitation before he could make the long journey home.

Tiffany opens up about the emotional toll of navigating her father's stroke from afar, the stress of coordinating international medical care and the moment she realized she had become her father's primary caregiver. She shares candidly about the heartbreak of watching her strong, independent father face physical and cognitive challenges — and the strength it took to step into a caregiving role while honoring his dignity.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• What it was like coordinating medical care and rehab internationally
• The complexities of flying a stroke survivor home after an overseas hospitalization
• The emotional impact of becoming a caregiver to a parent
• How caregiving redefined their relationship — and deepened their bond
• Tips for others suddenly thrust into long-distance or primary caregiving roles

Whether you're a caregiver, stroke survivor or loved one, Tiffany's story is a moving reminder that stroke changes everything — but it also creates space for resilience, connection and reimagined futures.

Key takeaways:

• Stroke recovery doesn't just impact the survivor — it reshapes family roles and dynamics.
• Long-distance caregiving and international rehab and travel come with logistical, legal and emotional challenges.
• Communication, compassion and flexibility are key to adapting during a medical crisis.
• Even amid grief for what was lost, it's possible to find new meaning and purpose in the caregiver role.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: July 14, 2025

Episode 31: Stronger After Stroke – Can I Drive Again? Legal Realities After Brain Injury

Driving is more than just transportation—it represents autonomy, identity and freedom. Host Rosa Hart welcomes attorney and brain injury survivor Cameron Fathauer, J.D., for an enlightening conversation about the emotional and legal complexities of driving after a brain injury. With firsthand insight and legal expertise, Cameron guides listeners through the critical considerations survivors and caregivers must understand when it comes to regaining the ability — and the right — to drive safely and legally. Cameron helps us unpack it all with clarity, empathy and real-world perspective.

After surviving a severe brain injury in 2015 and losing one-third of his skull, Cameron's life took an unexpected and transformative turn. He went from seminary student to licensed attorney in Indiana and Kentucky, while also becoming a father to triplets and authoring a memoir.

In this episode, Cameron shares:

• His personal recovery story and what driving again meant to him
• The legal and medical criteria often used to determine fitness to drive
• Common pitfalls and misunderstandings about license reinstatement
• Advice for navigating state-specific laws, physician reporting and assessments
• How caregivers can advocate for safety and independence

Key takeaways:

• Legal rules vary by state, and medical clearance doesn't always guarantee license reinstatement.
• Honest conversations with your care team — and your family — are essential.
• There are safe and supportive paths back to driving, including evaluations and retraining programs.
• Every survivor's path is different, and advocacy plays a powerful role in reclaiming independence.

About Cameron:

Cameron is a licensed attorney in Indiana and Kentucky, a brain injury survivor, a father of four (including triplets) and author of "Saving the Subject: How I Found You When I Almost Lost Me," a memoir that blends his personal story with poetry, philosophy, theology and creative writing. Cameron lives in Southern Indiana with his wife, Chelsea, and their children.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available online and in person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians.

Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: June 9, 2025

May 12: Stroke Awareness Month Episode

Episode 30: Stronger After Stroke – From Patient to Purpose: Adam Maddox's Journey

In this powerful episode of "Stronger After Stroke," host Rosa Hart, stroke nurse navigator, sits down with Adam Maddox, a stroke survivor who's rewriting his life story. At just 26 years old, Adam suffered a hemorrhagic stroke at his brother's funeral — a devastating event that led to a lifesaving intervention at Norton Brownsboro Hospital.

Now a nursing student and patient care associate at the very hospital that treated him, Adam shares how his experience transformed him from a professional DJ into a future nurse. Motivated by the care he received and inspired by his care team, he's committed to helping others recognize the warning signs and prevent strokes in young adults.

Adam opens up about his blood clot disorder, lifestyle habits and the reality that young people can have strokes too. He also shares how his recovery has inspired his 5-year-old daughter, who now wants to become a doctor herself.

Tune in to hear Adam's compelling transformation from patient to caregiver, and learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones — no matter your age.

Key takeaways:

• Strokes can happen at any age. Know the signs: sudden numbness, confusion, slurred speech and/or loss of balance
• Lifestyle choices matter. Blood pressure, diet and movement play critical roles in prevention.
• Personal stories like Adam's help break the myth that strokes only affect older adults.
• Purpose can be found even in life's most challenging moments.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

For more support after stroke, check out the programs available both virtually and in-person through Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers: https://nortonhealthcare.com/services-and-conditions/neurosciences/patient-resources/resource-center/

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians. Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: May 12, 2025

Stronger After Stroke: Driven to Thrive: Tackling Transportation After Stroke

In this empowering episode of "Stronger After Stroke," host Rosa Hart is joined by social worker Caitlin Zoeller, MSW, LCSW, for an honest conversation about one of the biggest hurdles stroke survivors face: transportation. From the emotional impact of losing the ability to drive to the everyday logistics of getting to appointments or simply staying social, transportation challenges can deeply affect independence and quality of life.

Together, Rosa and Caitlin unpack the grief many survivors experience, share real-world solutions such as assistive technology and shine a light on local programs that can help. They also talk about the essential role caregivers play and why health care providers must stay informed about resources to better serve their patients.

This episode is a must-listen for survivors, caregivers and health care professionals alike — because rebuilding life after stroke means more than just rehab. It means staying mobile, connected and seen.

Key takeaways

• Losing the ability to drive often triggers a grief process for stroke survivors.
• Many survivors feel reluctant to ask loved ones for rides, fearing they're a burden.
• Public transportation isn't always accessible or safe for those with mobility challenges.
• Tools such as GoGoGrandparent offer tech-enabled solutions for nondrivers.
• Insurance coverage for transportation varies — ask questions and explore options.
• Caregivers are crucial in managing transportation logistics and emotional support.
• Community-based programs can fill the gap with rides to medical appointments and more.
• Health care professionals should educate themselves on transportation resources.
• Advocacy is essential — raising your voice can spark real change.
• Staying connected through tech can reduce isolation and foster independence.

Want more inspiring stories and real-life resources? Subscribe and share "Stronger After Stroke" with someone who needs a little extra support navigating life after stroke.

If you enjoyed this podcast, listen to Norton Healthcare's "MedChat" podcast, available in your favorite podcast app. "MedChat" provides continuing medical education on the go and is targeted toward physicians and clinicians. Norton Healthcare, a not-for-profit health care system, is a leader in serving adult and pediatric patients throughout Greater Louisville, Southern Indiana, the commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond. A strong research program provides access to clinical trials in a multitude of areas. More information about Norton Healthcare is available at NortonHealthcare.com.

Date of original release: April 14, 2025