Joseph Quinn was a highway maintainer, a competitive bodybuilder and an actor prior to the stress induced hemorrhagic stroke that robbed Joe of the use of his right side and the ability to speak clearly. Joe’s unexpected journey across the wasteland of stroke recovery began with a month long hospital stay followed by nearly 4 years of anxiety, bouts of depression and ongoing therapy sessions. Joe remembers a sign in his speech therapist’s office. It became his mantra. “A productive patient is a patient who participates.” Joe took the saying to heart and to this date has been an active participant in his healing process. His diligence has paid off in daily improvement. He’s still making gains to this date, and expects to continue improving as long as he remains a patient who participates.
Post stroke Joe has returned to an adapted version of his bodybuilding training. Additionally, he is training 3 young men for their first bodybuilding competitions. And, although acting is currently a bit beyond his scope Joe has thoughts of creating an improv company made up of stroke survivors. While there is no doubt that the significant gains Joe has accomplished are a testimony to his relentless drive and resilience Joe is quick to credit his wife for her selfless and continued support as a major factor in his continued recovery.
For stroke survivors Joe has this advice. “Surround yourself with winners. We are not in recovery, we are on a discovery.” That is the insight and attitude that has made Joe Quinn a stroke survivor who can.
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