On June 10, 2012, Lindsay Murdock, a healthy 26 -year-old woman, gave birth to her son, Easton. However, just two hours after she became a first-time mother, Lindsay suffered a stroke. It was then that Lindsay was diagnosed with Preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome.
Lindsay spent many weeks in the ICU and a long-term acute care facility before she was admitted into On With Life’s Disorders of Consciousness program, where she began her 13-month journey at On With Life.
“The staff was so welcoming to all of us and found so many ways to include Easton in Lindsay’s therapy,” said Lindsay’s mother, Kristie Murdock. “The staff became our family.”
With the help of On With Life staff, Lindsay overcame several big obstacles. Five months into her stay, she began to communicate by blinking, and then eventually by hand signals. Next, she worked on her ability to swallow again. It was Lindsay’s determination to be there for her son that kept her pushing forward.
“Lindsay’s son keeps her positive and motivated, and the entire family is in awe of Lindsay’s unbelievable courage and positive attitude,” said Kristie. “She first laughed again on her birthday, May 28, 2013. This was sweet music to our ears, almost one year after the stroke.”
Since discharging from On With Life in October 2013, Lindsay has continued to make progress, now being able to speak and take a few assisted steps.
“Lindsay’s advice is simple – keep fighting and live it up,” said Kristie. “Lindsay has traveled to the beach, Disney World, and gone water skiing. We always figure out a way to have fun by adapting to the things Lindsay loves to do.”