Millennial Woman Has Stroke While Driving, Then Gets Shocking News in ER
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
A woman initially thought her car brakes had failed, but soon realized the problem was that her right foot and the entire right side of her body was paralyzed.
"I knew what was happening straight away," Kirsty Woodhouse told Newsweek. "I was terrified."
After stopping the vehicle with her left foot and looking in the mirror, the 35-year-old's fears came true. The right side of her face had dropped, and she was having a stroke. She rang an ambulance and managed to tell them where she was, despite her speech being slurred.
Typically, strokes affect people over the age of 65. However, the number of younger people experiencing strokes has increased, with the CDC reporting a 15 percent rise in stroke risk among Americans under 65 over the past decade. Prevalence has grown by 14.6 percent in those aged 18 to 44 and 15.7 percent in those aged 45 to 64.
From left: Kirsty Woodhouse sits in the car; and takes a selfie while on holiday.
From left: Kirsty Woodhouse sits in the car; and takes a selfie while on holiday.
Kirsty Woodhouse
Stroke Symptoms Return Multiple Times
Around five minutes later, Woodhouse, from Warrington, England, was able to move her body again. But stroke symptoms reoccurred and resolved themselves six more times on April 17 last year.
Before a CT scan, medics asked Woodhouse if she was pregnant, but she couldn't confirm as she had spent a few years trying to conceive and hadn't yet had her period that month.
The scan revealed there was a blood clot in an artery in her brain. She was diagnosed with a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which happens when blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked. The blockage often clears on its own, and symptoms typically last less than five minutes. Although a TIA doesn't leave permanent damage, it is a warning sign that a more-serious stroke could happen soon.
"It was like reliving it all over again and again," Woodhouse told Newsweek.
Expert Weighs In on Stroke Risks in Younger People
Newsweek spoke to brain-injury expert Natalie Mackenzie, the founder of BIS Services, the U.K.'s leading provider of cognitive rehabilitation services for individuals with brain injury such as strokes.
Mackenzie said: "A range of lifestyle factors may be driving this rise, including smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and increased stress levels.
"Among these factors, high blood pressure stands out as one of the most-significant risk factors. Although weight isn't the sole contributor, it can influence stroke risk."
Lifesaving Procedure and Pregnancy Concerns
Woodhouse underwent a thrombolysis procedure, which is done to break down and disperse a clot that is preventing blood from reaching the brain.
"I was told if I am pregnant, then it's likely the baby won't survive as it's a blood-thinning procedure," Woodhouse said. "It seemed to have worked as I felt fine.
"Twelve hours later, I remember feeling clammy, and I had a full stroke in hospital and, this time, the symptoms didn't resolve themselves," she added.
For 48 hours, Woodhouse couldn't even wiggle a toe and was completely paralyzed on the right side.
"It was scary," she said. "I had an MRI, which confirmed clot was gone but left a small amount of brain damage."
With no family history of strokes and many tests, medics were unable to find out what caused it. Meanwhile, blood tests continued to show high hormone levels indicating a pregnancy.
On her ninth day in hospital, she had a scan—and there was a baby. However, medics advised a termination as they believed the baby wouldn't survive or might be severely disabled.
From left: Woodhouse poses while pregnant; and cuddles her healthy baby.
From left: Woodhouse poses while pregnant; and cuddles her healthy baby.
Kirsty Woodhouse
"It was good news but at the wrong time. I thought, 'Am I even going to live past today?' I was so scared in case I wasn't going to make it," Woodhouse said.
Medics expressed their concern about the baby and suggested a termination.
"The stroke consultant said the pregnancy might not progress anyway or the baby might have disabilities," said Woodhouse. "They also didn't know how my body would cope with the physical demands of pregnancy and labor.
"It was scary, but we were 100 percent certain we would not have a termination," she added.
But finding out that she was going to be a mom for the third time spurred Woodhouse on during rehabilitation as she relearned how to walk and use her right arm again.
In December, she gave birth to Grace. She said: "It's like she has always been here; she is healthy and a perfect baby."
Today, she shares her story on TikTok and Instagram to raise awareness of strokes in young people, using the handle @strokesurvivor_babyandme.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Chicago Tribune
39 minutes ago
- Chicago Tribune
See clearly underwater with the best swim goggles
Over 90 million Americans swim in pools, lakes and oceans every year, and one-third of that group swims regularly for fitness. No matter where you swim, a good pair of goggles are essential. Goggles help the swimmer see beneath them, while also raising their head above the water line without having to wipe their eyes. Swimming goggles also protect the eyes from chlorine, salt or insects depending on where you are swimming. When it comes to keeping the water out of your eyes and a wide view of what's in front of you, the top choice is the Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggle. Fun vs. fitness While swimming goggles can be used for all situations, you may choose different types of goggles depending on your reason for being in the water. If you are relaxing on a summer day in the lake or a public swimming pool, not all of the cutting-edge features of performance goggles may be necessary. If you are completing your regular workout or training for a triathlon, then having extra-tight seals and panoramic lenses may be ideal. Types of swim goggles There are many types of goggles, each with a different purpose. Leisure goggles are the most common and used for recreational swimming as well as swimming laps. They are designed for comfort but still provide a strong seal. Mask goggles cover most of your face and have a very tight seal. They are excellent for being able to look around at your surroundings (similar to snorkeling), but provide too much drag to be used for fitness swimming. Performance goggles are smaller with less cushion around the seal. They are used by professional athletes to reduce the amount of drag they face in the water. A substyle in this category are Swedish goggles, which are designed to cover the eye only and typically don't last long. Most manufacturers also produce goggles to fit children. Lens types There are different types of lenses to choose from for most goggles. Clear goggles are best for indoor swimming or during cloudy conditions. Mirrored goggles are best for sunny days. You can get tinted lenses, which moderately protect against the sun, polarized lenses which provide significant sun protection, or you can even get transition lenses that change according to the amount of light in the swimming area. Comfortable but tight fit One of the most important aspects of swimming goggles is the ability to keep water out of your eyes without being so tight that they make your face hurt. The combination of seals, head straps and nose clips will make up your overall comfort. You want all of them to be snug, but not so tight that it's painful. Gaskets Most leisure goggles come with either silicone, rubber or foam gaskets. These help protect the skin while a seal is formed against the water. You may need to test different materials before finding the one right for you. Racing goggles typically do not have any gaskets. Antifog coating Swimming goggles with an antifog coating help keep the goggles from becoming blurry while you swim, which often requires rinsing them out. Unfortunately, this coating will wear out over time, even with higher-priced goggles. The best way to keep the coating intact is to take care of your goggles according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Swim goggles cost as little as $10-$20 for basic and children's models, while those with adjustable straps and antifog coating are priced between $20-$50. High-performance goggles with transition lenses or prescription lenses can cost over $50. What if I need prescription goggles? A. There are prescription goggles available for people who wear glasses and prefer to keep the ability to see clearly while underwater. Why do my goggles keep fogging up? A. Even antifog goggles can get partially blurry with too much condensation. Over time, the antifog coating will wear off. There are some spray-on antifog products available. Why do my goggles keep leaking? A. It is likely that a gasket in the seal is wearing out due to exposure to chlorine or just long-term use. You should also make sure the goggles haven't been bent from improper storage. Another reason, which seems counterintuitive, is that you may have the goggles on too tightly. Overly restricted goggles can actually lead to water getting inside the lenses. Top swim goggles Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggle What you need to know: For swimming in bright sunshine, these goggles set the standard with mirrored lenses. What you'll love: In addition to panoramic minimal-glare lenses, these goggles have cushioned silicone seals that keep water out and an adjustable head strap. Different-sized nose clips are included for maximizing overall fit. What you should consider: The mirrored lenses can make swimming difficult indoors or at night. Top swim goggles for the money ActivAqua Wide View Swimming Goggles What you need to know: These wide-lens goggles have unique design features that help them stay in place and last for a long time. What you'll love: The wide lenses are UV-plated and antifog-plated and come with double silicone seals. A one-snap buckle strap is easy to adjust, even while swimming. The goggles come with a protective case that drains quickly. What you should consider: These goggles are easily adjusted everywhere except the nosepiece. Worth checking out Aqua Sphere Kayenne Swim Goggles What you need to know: These multi-feature goggles are ideal for swimmers of all ages and abilities. What you'll love: Patented curve technology creates a 180-degree view. UV-protected and antifog clear lenses allow natural sunlight. Quick-fit straps and a stabilizing nose piece make for a tight, yet comfortable fit. What you should consider: There have been some reports of the lenses scratching. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Newsweek
3 hours ago
- Newsweek
New Study Says Skip the Hot Dogs This Fourth of July
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. As Americans fire up their grills for the Fourth of July, a new study published in Nature Medicine says that there is no safe amount of hot dogs—or any processed meat—to consume. The study, led by Dr. Demewoz Haile of the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, found that even small daily servings of processed meat significantly increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, colorectal cancer, and heart disease. The findings arrive just as Americans are expected to consume over 150 million hot dogs during the holiday weekend. Health experts are urging moderation, if not outright avoidance, of processed meats, sugary drinks, and trans fats. The study analyzed data from over 60 prior studies and employed a burden-of-proof methodology to evaluate the strength of the evidence. Hot dogs are ready for the 2025 Nathan's Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating competition at Coney Island in the Brooklyn borough of New York on July 4, 2025. Hot dogs are ready for the 2025 Nathan's Famous Fourth of July hot dog eating competition at Coney Island in the Brooklyn borough of New York on July 4, It Matters Hot dogs are a staple of July 4 celebrations, but this research contributes to a growing body of evidence linking processed meats to an increased risk of chronic disease. With diet-related illnesses already among the leading causes of death in the U.S., the study speaks to the need for more transparent communication about the risks of everyday foods that are deeply embedded in American culture. What To Know Eating just 50 grams of processed meat daily—the weight of a typical hot dog—is associated with an 11 percent higher risk of type 2 diabetes and a 7 percent higher risk of colorectal cancer. The study also found links between sugary drinks and ischemic heart disease and between trans fats and elevated cholesterol. Researchers concluded that there is no safe level of habitual consumption of processed meats, sugary drinks, or trans fats. The strongest associations were observed even at low levels of intake, suggesting that regular consumption—regardless of the amount—poses measurable health risks. The research pooled data from over 60 studies and applied a burden-of-proof risk function to assess the strength and consistency of the evidence. While observational, the study's scale and statistical rigor make its findings difficult to ignore. Dr. Nita Forouhi of the University of Cambridge, who was not involved in the study, said the findings support existing dietary guidelines to limit processed meat, per CNN. Other experts emphasized that occasional indulgence is unlikely to cause harm, but regular consumption should be avoided. The study's release coincides with the annual Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest and a weekend when Americans traditionally consume millions of hot dogs. Health officials are using the moment to encourage healthier grilling choices and raise awareness about long-term dietary risks. What People Are Saying Authors of Health effects associated with consumption of processed meat, sugar-sweetened beverages and transfatty acids: a Burden of Proof study: "We observed a statistically in type 2 diabetes risk associated with higher processed meat consumption; that is, disease risk increased with increased intake." Dr. Demewoz Haile, the study's lead author, told CNN.: "Habitual consumption of even small amounts of processed meat, sugary drinks and trans fatty acids is linked to increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, ischemic heart disease and colorectal cancer. What Happens Next While the study is unlikely to stop Americans from enjoying hot dogs this weekend, it may influence future dietary guidelines and public health campaigns.
Newsweek
4 hours ago
- Newsweek
Millions Told To Avoid Driving On 4th of July
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Air quality alerts were issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in conjunction with local authorities for multiple states as of July 4, with officials advising residents in effected areas to take steps to help reduce air pollution in their area. Why It Matters Experts caution that unhealthy air quality heightens health risks for vulnerable populations, such as older adults, young children, and those with respiratory illnesses. What To Know In Michigan, affected areas included the southwestern and southeastern portions of the state. Weather conditions would be favorable for elevated ozone levels, according to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. In the Detroit metropolitan area, "stagnant conditions" would also allow smoke from fireworks displays to accumulate, the agency said. 4th of July preparations are seen on the National Mall during the procedural vote on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on July 03, 2025 in Washington, D.C. 4th of July preparations are seen on the National Mall during the procedural vote on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on July 03, 2025 in Washington, Indiana and surrounding areas were also issued alerts, due to both ozone and fine particles. In Illinois, an air pollution action day was in effect until midnight on Friday. The alert explained that these are declared "when weather conditions are such that widespread ozone and or particulate levels are expected to be at or above the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category of the Air Quality Index for multiple days." While ozone was expected to be the primary pollutant, emissions from fireworks could also contribute to poorer air quality, according to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency. In Ohio, ozone forecasts prompted an advisory to be issued for Butler, Clermont, Hamilton and Warren Counties. Meanwhile, an ozone high pollution advisory was issued for Maricopa County and the Phoenix metropolitan area in Arizona for Monday, where officials said forecast weather conditions could result in potentially unhealthy pollution levels. Additional air quality alerts were in place for parts of California, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Local authorities urged people in affected areas to take steps to reduce air pollution, including driving less, walking or bike riding, avoiding additional sources of pollution such as gasoline-powered lawn equipment, and using public transport. What People Are Saying AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham previously told Newsweek: "Ozone is a secondary pollutant, meaning it's not emitted directly from sources, but is formed through chemical reactions. These reactions require sunlight and higher temperatures, making warmer months more prone to ozone formation. When air is stagnant, pollutants don't get dispersed, allowing ozone to build up to unhealthy levels. "Ozone pollution is often more severe in urban areas where there are higher concentrations of pollutants from sources like cars, power plants, and industrial activities." Jonathan Grigg, professor of pediatric respiratory and environmental medicine at Queen Mary, University of London, previously told Newsweek that there are "very clear links" between inhaling particles and earlier death from both respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. He added: "There are vulnerable groups and classically they are children because they've got an extra issue to do with their lungs developing, whereas our lungs are not developing as adults." What Happens Next At the time of writing, the latest of the air quality alerts were in effect through Monday, though most were set to expire before this. The NWS issues regular forecast updates on its website.
