Stroke Survivor: A Story of Hope

At age forty, a stroke ended Don Kvernen’s career as a psychologist and left him with permanent physical and cognitive disabilities. Two decades later, he and his wife Rosella reveal the unvarnished truth about his struggles and share how he maintains meaning and joy in his life. Due to Don’s continued difficulty with language, Rosella is the primary storyteller, but Don’s positive spirit and determination shine throughout the book.

The Kvernens describe their attempts to handle devastating circumstances and compensate for enormous losses. Their account offers encouragement, hope, and insight to fellow stroke survivors and their families, as well as to their friends and healthcare providers.

With poignancy and humor, Stroke Survivor depicts the triumphs of Don’s rehabilitation, along with the heartaches of their family’s challenges. Though Don has not made a full recovery, his optimistic attitude, his training, and Don and Rosella’s mutual commitment to find ways to cope have helped them persevere. Stroke Survivor is truly a story of ongoing healing and the power of hope.