What's up Everybody! I'm Will, aka The Lovable Survivor 👋 💖In Dec 2019 at 37, I became a young stroke survivor. If that wasn't enough, 2 months later in February 2020, I get hit with another surprise - a Multiple Sclerosis(MS) diagnosis. All leading up to the start of a Global Pandemic! I want to share my journey with you to help you make the most of your second chance.There are no shortcuts or magic pills when it comes to recovery. So let's do this together and build a community of resilien ...
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44. Stroke to Strength: Embracing the Athlete's Mindset in Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. In today’s episode, I dive into my journey as a stroke survivor and multiple sclerosis (MS) patient, and how coaching youth sports has influenced my recovery more recently. I explore the synergy between the discipline in sports and the resilience needed for stroke recovery. 🌟 In This Episode: Coaching Youth Sports: I share h…
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43. Stroke Recovery: A Reflection of the 4 years since my stroke and lessons learned!
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Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I dive deep into my journey from the sudden onset of a stroke in December 2019, through the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) 2 months later to where I stand today. I'm sharing the pivotal lessons, the critical need for personalized recovery strategies, and the lifestyle transformations that have been ins…
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42. Celebrating Caregivers: A Survivor's Journey Through Recovery and Gratitude
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Send us a Text Message. Welcome back to another new episode of The Lovable Survivor podcast after the holiday break. Hopefully, your New Year is off to a great start. In this special episode, I share an intimate reflection on my stroke recovery journey, emphasizing the monumental role of caregivers and the deep gratitude I have for them. 🌟 Key Topi…
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41. Stroke Survivors' Chat: Two Friends, Two Journeys, One Inspiring Conversation
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Send us a Text Message. 🌟 In This Episode: In this heartfelt episode, I'm joined by Margo Williams, a fellow stroke survivor and friend. We'll share our remarkable journeys surviving strokes at a young age and the profound impact on our lives. 🔄 Personal Transformation After Stroke: Margo and I discuss how strokes transformed us, changing our persp…
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40. The Art of Survival: How Heart Attack and Stroke Survivors Defy the Odds
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Send us a Text Message. This week, Chispian Burks and I chat about our remarkable journeys through heart attack and stroke. We dive deep into the challenges, misinterpretations of symptoms, and the transformative power of lifestyle changes. 🩸 Understanding the Widowmaker: Delve into the significance of the Left Anterior Descending (LED) artery and …
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39. Inspiring Stroke Survivors: My Journey of Embracing Change Through Running and Breathing Exercises
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Send us a Text Message. 🎙️ Episode 39: "Inspiring Stroke Survivors: My Journey of Embracing Change Through Running and Breathing Exercises" Hey, it's Will here with another episode of The Lovable Survivor. Today, I'm excited to delve into how running and breathing exercises have become a transformative part of my stroke recovery journey. 🌟 In This …
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37. Revelations in Recovery: Uncovering Unanticipated Insights Post-Stroke
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Send us a Text Message. This week is a deep dive into some unexpected revelations and practical strategies that have surfaced during my four years of stroke recovery. 🌱 Dive Deeper & Discover Breathing New Life: Sharing how nasal breathing revolutionized my recovery and well-being, and why it's crucial for stroke survivors. Journey of Support: Disc…
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36. Beyond Survival: Nurturing Resilience and Celebrating the Strength of the Survivor Community Round 2!
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Send us a Text Message. 🌊 Deep Dive into Resilience This week on "," We continue our profound journey into the support systems that empower survivors. 🌱 Dive Deeper & Discover Creating a Judgment-Free Zone: Join me as I discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for survivors to share their stories without fear of judgment. Community Spotlight:…
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35. The Power of Connection: Uniting Stroke Survivors in Community for Inspiration and Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. 🌊 Deep Dive This week, delve into the world of connection and community post-stroke. Explore the strength found in unity and shared experiences, and the importance of time in shaping our recovery narratives. 🌱 Takeaways Community Chronicles: The importance of building a larger, inclusive community for all to belong. Let’s jo…
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34.Running Towards Resilience: How a Stroke Survivor Proved That Anybody Can Become a Runner!
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Send us a Text Message. 🎙️ Welcome to Lovable Survivor, where this week I offer an unfiltered dive into my transformative journey as a stroke survivor. From the harrowing experience of weighing 500 pounds at the time of my stroke in 2019 to my dynamic evolution into a runner. 🏃♂️ Introduction to Running as a Stroke Survivor A stroke in 2019 had me…
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33. From Addiction to Recovery: How a Stroke Became a Catalyst for Positive Change
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Send us a Text Message. 🎙️ Dive into Lovable Survivor this week, and immerse yourself in a candid, gripping account of navigating life post-stroke. As I pull back the curtain on my personal story, I'm taking you on a rollercoaster through triumphs, tears, and tinges of humor. 🌱 Deep Dive Second Chances & Reflections: Discover the profound power of …
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32. Managing Stress in Stroke Recovery: Insights, Experiences, and Practical Strategies for a Resilient Journey
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Send us a Text Message. 🎙️ In this week’s episode of Lovable Survivor, we explore the multifaceted journey of managing stress in stroke recovery. Stress, taking forms such as emotional, physical, family, work, and financial, is a constant companion on this path. Tackling each type is pivotal for harmonious recovery and reinstating self-belief. 🌱 Wh…
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31.Empowering Stroke Survivors & Rebuilding Confidence with Small Steps and Diverse Support Networks
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Send us a Text Message. 🤔 Why This EP Matters 🤔 Navigating life post-stroke or after a major medical event can be isolating and challenging, but remember, you are not alone. In Episode 31 of the Lovable Survivor Podcast, we delve into shared experiences, offer practical advice, and foster a community that supports every unique journey to recovery. …
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30. The Beat of Resilience: How Music Therapy Unlocks New Possibilities in Stroke Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. 🎙 Episode 30: The Healing Power of Music in Stroke Recovery | Lovable Survivor 🎙 In this week's episode, we're tackling the often-underestimated subject of music therapy in stroke recovery. I certainly ignored some of the potential benefits early on, so that's really why I'm talking about it this episode because I think it's…
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29. Prioritizing Self-Care: The Key to Thriving After a Stroke
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Send us a Text Message. 🎙 Episode 29: The Evolution of Lovable Survivor and the Path Forward 🎙 Episode 29 is a reflective pit stop. We delve into self-care as the cornerstone of any recovery and the key to being the best you can be for those who count on you. 🤔 Why This Episode Matters 🤔 As we approach the 30th episode, it's an opportune moment to …
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28. Winning the Day in Stroke Recovery: Small Tasks, Kindness, and Taking Control
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Send us a Text Message. 📌 Episode Summary: In this episode, I'm diving into the complexities of stroke recovery. From advocating for yourself in the hospital to handling setbacks and using humor as a tool, I've got you covered. We're all about taking steps towards a more empowered and fulfilling recovery. 📋 Topics Covered: 🔹 Evaluating Progress and…
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27. Rebuilding Strength and Stamina: The Role of Breathing and Exercise in Stroke Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. **Episode Highlights:** - The transformative power of Breathwork: How improved breathing techniques aided in my stroke recovery, reduced reliance on medications, and even helped me get from nearly 500 lbs to under 300. -The personal journey through stroke recovery: Why comparing yourself to others is futile, the need for tai…
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26. From Stroke to Success: Empowering Survivors in Their Journey Back to the Workplace
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Send us a Text Message. Today, we're tearing down the walls on a topic that doesn’t get enough real talk: returning to work after a brain injury or stroke. Hit a solid 5-mile run today, and guess what? Round two is on the horizon. But enough about me; let's get into the meat of things. We're diving into Round two of returning to work again, after s…
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25. Unleashing Creativity After Stroke: How Hobbies Inspire Resilience and Growth for Stroke Survivors
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Send us a Text Message. Topic 1: The importance of giving grace to stroke and MS survivors - Emphasize supporting survivors in their endeavors - Encourage building businesses, raising awareness, and engaging in a community Topic 2: Gratitude for doctors, nurses, and medical professionals - Recount a recent hospital visit - Enjoyment of being in the…
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24. Stroke and Anxiety: Learning to Navigate Social Anxiety after Experiencing a Stroke
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Send us a Text Message. Welcome to episode 24 of "Lovable Survivor"! In today's episode, we will be delving into the topic of anxiety and exploring various strategies for coping with it. I'm your host, Will Schmierer, and I'm excited to share my personal journey with anxiety and how it has shaped my life after experiencing a stroke. While I am not …
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23. Understanding Overwhelm After Stroke: Untangling the Web of Sensory Overload After a Stroke
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Send us a Text Message. Episode 23 of "Lovable Survivor," we talk sensory overload. Although it might not seem like your typical podcast chat, it's stirred up some compelling questions I'm eager to dive into in future episodes. In my quieter, introverted days, sensory overload was a concept lurking just beyond my grasp. I could feel its presence, b…
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22. Igniting Change: Rebuilding Your Life after Stroke with the Power of Asking 'Why' and 'Why Not'
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Send us a Text Message. In Episode 22 of the "Lovable Survivor" podcast, I open up about my personal journey as a stroke survivor and share reflections on embracing resilience and personal growth. Throughout this episode, I discuss the power of asking "why" and defying limitations, while emphasizing the importance of sharing personal experiences. F…
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21. Sleep is Key for Recovery: A Lifeline for Stroke and Brain Injury Survivors
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Send us a Text Message. 1️⃣ Establish a consistent sleep schedule: While I struggle with maintaining a consistent sleep schedule myself, I recognize the importance of having a routine. Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night to support recovery and physical restoration. 2️⃣ Breathing exercises for better sleep: I've discovered the power of…
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20. The importance of humor in stroke recovery and learning to say no to things that don't bring you joy!
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Send us a Text Message. Episode 20 of "Life After Stroke: Say 'No' to Negativity, 'Yes' to Daily Fun," the importance of humor and learning to say no when it comes to your recovery and life after stroke. In this episode, I delve into the healing power of humor and the crucial importance of maintaining a positive outlook during the daunting journey …
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19. Balancing Restoration and Reinvention: A Guide for Survivor's Navigating Their Journey through Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. Podcast Episode Summary: - Switching from right-handed to left-handed (for right-side affected survivors) - Personal preference and task importance are factors to consider - Progress in other areas and individual effort are also important - Recovering from injuries - Takes time to rebuild - Using principles of getting safe, …
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18. The Potential of ChatGPT and AI in Stroke Recovery and Beyond
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Send us a Text Message. Episode 18: AI and ChatGPT - The Future of Stroke Recovery 1. **Introduction** - Kicking off episode 18 with an exciting dive into AI's role in stroke recovery, and a spotlight on ChatGPT, a powerful aid for survivors. 2. **ChatGPT** - Exploring ChatGPT as a major player in stroke recovery and discussing its myriad applicati…
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17. The Valuable Role of Caregivers in Stroke Recovery aka The Unsung Hero
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Send us a Text Message. The caregiver, Guide, I wish I had been able to give to my friends and family sooner: 📗Get the Stroke.org Guide Here Episode Topics: - Owning up to Mistakes, Grace, and Kindness - Lack of Connection between Therapists and Survivors in Florida - Purpose of Building Community for Stroke Survivors and Caregivers - Essentials fo…
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16. Surviving a Stroke: Challenges, Growth, and Resilience, The Upsides of a Stroke!
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Send us a Text Message. Topics covered in this episode: 1. The Upsides of Experience a Stroke: - Having a stroke allows you to face challenges and prioritize self-care - The experience can bring a renewed sense of awareness and mental and physical toughness - It can offer an opportunity to reset and reevaluate expectations for oneself and others - …
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15. Overcoming Plateaus: Tips for Moving Forward in Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. Summary: Embracing Change and Overcoming Plateaus in Recovery Hey there! Are you struggling to overcome plateaus in your life? Whether it's in your recovery process or just trying to reach your goals, it's important to ask yourself if you need a break or an outside opinion. In this episode, I talked about my own journey as a…
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14. The Hidden Toll of Stroke: Exploring Emotional and Behavioral Shifts
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Send us a Text Message. After surviving a stroke, the social and emotional toll on a survivor's life is often overlooked, leading to sneaky changes and behaviors that are difficult to explain to loved ones. Overstimulation is often an issue, particularly early on that family members and friends won't understand, but should be made aware of, that wa…
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13. Breaking the Gate: Why Information-Sharing Matters in Stroke Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. If you're feeling overwhelmed and discouraged from continuing your search for resources, support, and information that can help you cope with the challenges of stroke recovery, then you are not alone! "I've learned some valuable lessons as a result of having my stroke." In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the impac…
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12. Unlocking the Secret Ingredients for an Exceptional Stroke Recovery
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Send us a Text Message. Survivors of stroke and brain injury often find themselves in a difficult situation with no clear resolution. But, with the right resources and an appreciation for the journey, it is possible to recover from a stroke and reclaim their lives. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the power of gratitude, humor, faith,…
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11. Surviving & Thriving: The Power of a Resilient Mindset
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Send us a Text Message. In this episode of the Lovable Survivor Podcast, I explore how to navigate the grief of an old self and embrace our new reality with a positive mindset, allowing us to gradually build resilience and emotional growth from a major life event. As a listener, you will be able to journey through grief stages and emerge stronger a…
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10. Unlock the Power of Nasal Breathing for Better Health & Focus
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Send us a Text Message. For a good chunk of my life, I was the guy who didn't give much thought to the way I breathed. I'd always been a mouth breather, but I wasn't conscious of the potential effects on my health and well-being. It wasn't until I read Breath by James Nester that it all changed for me. I realized how much more there was to learn ab…
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9. Medical Marijuana: Benefits, Pros, Cons, My Experience and The Surprising Results
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Send us a Text Message. Experience the potential benefits of medical marijuana, with a safe and regulated approach. I learned about the potential benefits of Medical Marijuana from a conversation on The Lovable Survivor Podcast. Medical Marijuana can be used for a variety of issues, from pain relief to better sleep to anti-inflammatory benefits. It…
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8. Navigating the Wild Ride of Stroke Recovery and Brain Injury
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Send us a Text Message. Feeling lost and overwhelmed? Discover how to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of stroke recover and brain injury and reclaim your life. We discuss the peaks, valleys, plateaus, and everything in between! In this episode you will learn: 1. How can nasal breathing help improve your health after a stroke or brain injury? 2…
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7. The Million Dollar Question? How Long Does Stroke Recovery Take?
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Send us a Text Message. Without a doubt the number one question by stroke survivors, caregivers, family, and friends is according to my experience and research is... "How long does it take?" Unfortunately, you probably won't get the answer you're hoping for because that doesn't actually exist! But I do my very best to explain, as a stroke survivor …
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6. The Truth about Returning to Work after Stroke or Significant Major Medical Life Event
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Send us a Text Message. There is the way people tell you it will go and then it probably would be amazing if it did go that way when returning to work after stroke or major medical life event. And to be quite honest, I hope it goes that way for you. I don't likelihood that it goes the ideal way is pretty slim. The truth is without sugarcoating. It …
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5. Things People Say That Get Old and Tired Quickly After You Have a Stroke, Brain Injury, or Similar. Explained by an Actual Survivor
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Send us a Text Message. After having a stroke, you will hear well-intentioned but unhelpful comments from others. One common remark is, "Things aren't going to be the same." While this may be true, it doesn't provide any practical guidance or support for the survivor. It's important to remember that you can't control what other people say or how th…
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Send us a Text Message. This episode takes a little bit of a different direction where I discuss a few personal wins, and how I prioritize those in the beginning! And how learning how to walk better sleep better eat better and breathe better got me on the path to better health and fitness! Everybody says it takes time, and that is true, but the bes…
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3. Navigating Your Family Dynamics After a Major Medical Life Event
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Send us a Text Message. In this episode of the lovable survivor podcast, I talk a lot about navigating the family dynamics after a major medical Life event! There are a couple different groups involved the survivor, the primary and secondary caretakers, immediate family and extended family all want to help and it can be both challenging an overwhel…
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2. The Early days and Managing the Initial Wave of Overwhelm
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Send us a Text Message. When it comes to the early days of the survivor journey, there is no shortage of information coming your way as a survivor, a family member, caretaker etc. I won't even pretend in this episode it is easy to manage because it is obviously unique to everybody situation and telling you to breathe is just flat out. Ridiculous be…
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1. Background and Backstory of My Life, My Stroke and Motivation for This Show
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Send us a Text Message. In this first episode, the title, pretty well captures the highlights of this episode. For those that don't know me or might be missing some high-level details. This episode is a bit about my background, who I am what happened, and some of the drivers and reasonings behind starting this new podcast. I'm sure a lot of things …
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Send us a Text Message. Just a Quick Introduction Episode for the Lovable Survivor Podcast. My name is Will Schmierer and I'm a Stroke Survivor since I had my stroke at age 37 in December 2019. I also got diagnosed two months after with multiple sclerosis, so I also have MS. I know it sounds super fun and it is and this podcast has everything to do…
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