Brain Attack

I came across this book when doing research for a school paper. Usually I just skim my sources for relevant information, but once I started reading "Brain Attack," I could not put it down. The book is written journal style, which effectively places the reader in Polly's shoes (or, more accurately, her mind and her thoughts). Polly also includes observations from those close to her -- family, friends, therapists -- so we get her story from many, varied points of view. Polly is also a nurse, so we get the added bonus of her perspective both as a medical professional and as a "regular" patient.The result is a thorough, emotionally-compelling story that takes us from the initial attack through months of grueling rehabilitation. Along the way, Polly tells us about the ups & downs of her recovery -- including less-than-optimal caregivers and, more importantly, invaluable allies.This book is honest and poignant; it made me sad and angry at times... but by the end I wanted to cheer Polly's accomplishments. On top of all that, the book is medically-informative -- e.g., providing helpful information on what to do after someone has a stroke. And, since strokes run in my family, I want everyone I know to read this book. A must-read for patients and caregivers alike!

Polly Perez has a lot to say for someone with aphasia! Join her in this remarkable journey through her stroke as she describes in detail the day-by-day events of this life-changing event. Polly is able to capture what I see so many of my patients try to describe - everything from the nurturing attitudes of the therapists to the struggles of both her and her family and friends. The uncaring attitude of some, which is too often a part of the healthcare system today is also described with emotional detail. Polly also uses some heartfelt quotations from a variety of sources which are spread throughout in the writing. I was especially touched by these quotations as they added to my understanding of what Polly must have felt as she wrote this diary. "Brain Attack" is a book which I will recommend to patients I work with. I always tell those patients, "I know some things about strokes, but you will always know more because you have experienced one first hand" I still know that to be true, but thanks to this wonderful book, I am a bit closer to understanding a stroke from the inside out.Michael Sutherland, Licensed Massage Therapist, Recreational Therapist, Stroke Survivor Group Facilitator

Whether you know someone who has suffered a stroke, or you yourself have experienced one, OR you have never been around the effects of a stroke, this book is an absolute must-read for everyone! It's message of perseverence in the face of adversity can help anyone at anytime in their life.While reading Brain Attack, I was overcome with emotion. All those friends/family of Polly's and how they've upholded and supported her through those tough times, was truly inspirational!I believe this book is absolutely AMAZING!! It deserves national attention! All of Polly Perez' words are so heartfelt and sometimes sad and angry, yet so true and meaningful! I hope all people who suffer from ailments (especially strokes) get a chance to partake of this book.I found such strength reading her words, and it made me realize how precious everything we have in our world is, and that at any given moment it could be taken away from us; that we must value our lives as we live them!As a doula myself, the strength I gained from reading your life after the attack will help me persevere when birth takes a turn which no one expected, or when the mom needs to feel empowered. I will remember her strength and make it mine (I hope).I want to thank you, Polly, for being strong, and speaking out about empowerment and upholding all that is dear to us poor old humans!In the doula spirit and the spirit of humanity...Sue Coffman

It's about time someone wrote a book about the stuggles and fears and triumphs associated with having a stroke. Paulina Perez writes from personal experience in a way that is comforting to those who have experienced the same thing. She not only gives her personal, intimate thoughts and feelings as a stroke survivor, but explores how it effects others around them and the perceptions people have of stroke survivors. This book is great for it's educational value....as well as a helping guide to others going through the same journey. This book is a must read for anyone who has had a stroke...or anyone who knows someone who had a stroke. My great grandmother had several stroks before she passed away 12 years ago....and reading this book made me look at the years after her strokes in a totally different light. It's about time this book was finally written..YEAH!

I just finished reading Polly Perez' new book Brain Attack . It moved me beyond words. The incredible story itself would be sufficient, but learning about the reality of facing adversity, loss of motor function and the paralyzing fear that accompanies losing the ability to speak or even to form sentences is compelling. Written in a 'diary-style' format, Brain Attack takes the reader through the minute to minute, day to day, week to week struggle and ultimate triumph of one determined stroke survivor. Input from medical professionals trained in treating this type of disability, coupled with commentary from family and close friends, creates a clear understanding and valuable tool to provide nurture and support for anyone faced with the challenge of a brain attack. There is a comprehensive bibliography with numerous resources as well as listings of risk factors, warning signs and sources for obtaining information about the most recent treatments. Brain Attack serves as a metaphor to all that the seemingly "impossible" is within our reach if we strive with our hearts.