Stroke Recovery, Rehab Access, and Caregiver Advocacy

If you or someone you love has experienced a stroke, this episode is essential listening. Guest Lori Williams shares the powerful story of her husband’s stroke on Christmas Day and the journey they’ve been on since—from missteps in emergency care to navigating long-term neuro rehab, home modifications, disability benefits, and beyond. This conversation is packed with practical insight, powerful reflection, and advice every caregiver and clinician should hear. You’ll learn how Lori leveraged her background in senior care, fought for extended therapy access, and stayed two steps ahead at every turn—plus the crucial lessons she wants every family to know about FAST stroke response, Medicare limitations, and planning for home rehab success.

Chapters:

00:00 – Childhood books and the emotional power of stories

07:00 – Why Lori turned a personal crisis into a published book

10:00 – The stroke: Christmas Day, early symptoms, and emergency decisions

16:00 – The long road: neuro rehab, home care, and persistent advocacy

22:00 – Insurance, Medicare limits, and how to access better rehab

33:00 – Staying ahead: home modifications, planning, and asking the right questions 40:00 – What to do when your healthcare team isn’t helping

45:00 – Why Lori wrote “Surrounded by Love” and how to get it

Helpful Resources:

Lori’s Book – “Surrounded by Love”: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMHYSPJN

Lori Williams Senior Services: https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com

AskSAMIE – Adaptive Equipment & Aging-in-Place Tools: https://www.asksamie.com

Higher Standards Caregiver Training: https://www.higherstandardscaregivertraining.com

More CareLab Episodes & Resources: https://www.carelabpodcast.com