Single Mother Suffers Brain Stroke

Hi. My name is Ana. I'm a single mother to 2 wonderful boys age 11 and 5. They are my inspiration and life. It is truly their larger than life personalities and joyful spirits that have brought me through  the valley that I'm trudging through at this time. 

On August 5, 2013 my life took a drastic turn that I never could have imagined. On this day I was supposed to fly back to Florida from a 5 day visit to San Fransisco. Instead of being driven to the airport, I was rushed to the ER. I was staying at a very dear friend's home and when I came out of the guest bedroom she could see something was very wrong. I managed to explain that I couldn't feel anything on my left side and that I was disoriented. Immediately my friend took me to the ER. The doctor's speculated from my symptoms that it appeared that I had suffered a stroke. However, even they were a bit sceptical. As a 40yo mom, prior to this medical scare I have been in excellent condition. I'm not overweight, I don't have diabetes, heart problems, cholestrol, or any other medical issues that could lead to a blood clot (stroke) to my brain.

Numerous tests (CT Scans, MRIs, Doppler, Ultrasounds, Xrays, blood test, etc) determined that I had suffered a stroke. For 4 days I was hospitalized but even after discharge had to remain in San Francisco until it was determined I was fit to fly back to Florida. Two weeks from the date that I had originally flown into San Francisco I was determined fit enough to fly.  

I am so happy to be reunited with my boys. The difficult road to full recovery has begun. I continue to have numbness on my left side. My hearing, sight, and speech are impaired. I get massive headaches constantly. But despite all I am very optimistic. I'm grateful to be alive and feel fortunate that my impairments aren't worse. I know I'm lucky. Some people suffer paralysis or even death from strokes. I thank God that this wasn't the case for me. I thank God for medical insurance. For the most part they have covered everything. While I've had co-payments I'm thankful not to have to cover the full bill. 

The doctors are telling me that I won't be able to go back to work for 3-6 months. If only I could turn back the hands of time when I was signing up for benefits at my new job. I would have signed up for short/long term disability. But hindsight is 20/20, no? I've only been at my job for 4 months so I only have 3 days of PTO which will be paid to me on my next pay check. I will begin therapy next week and I pray that I improve quickly. But I know worrying about it won't help things. I must remain positive and upbeat. The fact remains that my boys and I can't survive financially with no income for 3-6 months. I feel terrible asking strangers to reach into their pockets to help when they don't know me or my situation. Times are hard and my family and close friends aren't able to help me out for 3-6 months. I've looked at ways to downsize through this time period. The only expenses that I can't changes are my car payment, car insurance, rent and phone. I need my car so I can get to therapy & doctor's appts. My boys deserve a roof over their head. A phone is a necessity in case of an emergency. 

I thank you in advance for whatever money you can donate. Even a word of prayer is such an encouragement.