"I used to think my stroke had taken something from me — something I could never get back. What I didn’t realize was that it had also given me something: the beginning of a new chapter." Maddi Niebanck shared these words during a Spring 2025 Stroke Monologues — part of a growing series of Stroke Onward Gatherings happening across the country. Ten days after graduating college, Maddi had a stroke that changed everything. Recovery meant learning to walk again, speak again, and slowly rediscover who she was becoming. One hallway walk at a time, she showed up — for herself and for her community. Now, through “Maddi Stroke of Luck,” she uses storytelling, humor, and truth to help others embrace identity, growth, and connection in life after stroke. Her message is a reminder: You’re not just surviving. You’re becoming. Want to hear stories like Maddi’s in person? Find an upcoming event near you: strokeonward.org/gathering Follow Maddi: maddistrokeofluck #StrokeRecovery #StrokeOnward ...