Life's What You Make It

My name’s Rikki, and I’ve been through a fair bit in my time. Had three strokes between 2008 and 2015. The first one happened because I took a hard knock to the head, and it rattled me so bad it caused an aneurysm. And then, wouldn’t you know it, that thing burst. I was at home by myself when it happened. I remember seeing people right outside, just meters away, but I couldn’t call out. I could only move my eyes and my fingers, so I somehow managed to call triple 000 and whisper into the phone. Saved my own life, by some miracle.

After that, I was in the hospital for a month. They put a coil in my brain, and honestly, I’m lucky to still be here. Most people don’t make it, but I did. Afterward, I decided it was time to give up smoking. Been clean ever since. The doctors told me I’m more likely to have another stroke, and there’s a higher chance I could end up with dementia. But that’s just something I live with now.

Thing is, strokes run in my family. Both of my kids have had them too, in their thirties, and it’s heartbreaking to see. But I tell you, if there’s one thing I know, it’s that a positive attitude and a bit of determination go a long way. My main issue now is my memory—I still forget things more than I’d like, but it’s getting better, little by little.

Every day, I go for a walk along the beach near my house. That beach is my medicine, keeps me grounded. I don’t miss a single day, rain or shine, and I hit my 10,000 steps no matter what. In the evenings, you’ll find me on the couch with my crochet and my favourite soap, Home and Away. Just a bit of time to unwind and let the day go.

Family and friends mean the world to me. I’ve lost my filter after the strokes, and while that’s taken some getting used to, it’s also given me back my voice. I’m finally saying what’s on my mind, especially after a rough marriage. I’ve found this honesty is actually helping me, and maybe it’s helping others too.

I also started working as a traffic controller, and it’s good work. Gives me purpose, and I’m able to keep others safe in their travels. Helping people is something that brings meaning to my life, and I’m proud of it.

So yeah, life’s handed me a few tough cards, but I’m still here, still smiling. I believe life’s what you make it. I keep going, one step at a time, with a full heart and a bit of grit, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.