Always the optimist, Steve resumed his speaking career. With cue cards in hand, he shared the life-altering adventure with healthcare professionals, as a survivor and a keynote speaker. While elaborating on “just what he believed,” he had to refer to the cue cards to know just what he did believe! He ditched the cards years ago! Does that give you a glimpse of the sense of humor that’s kept Steve sane - and entertains audiences. He lives by his slogan of, “What a long strange trip it’s been.”

My Stroke Speaks carries two meanings. It celebrates the fact that Steve can speak at all after his stroke, but it also recognizes that the stroke continues to "speak" through the lessons, humor, hard truths, and unexpected insights it has revealed over eighteen years.

Steve isn't afraid to say what many survivors, caregivers, and families quietly think, but rarely say out loud. His candor challenges conventional thinking and often gives audiences permission to acknowledge feelings they've kept to themselves. Those who connect with his perspective often tell him he gives voice to thoughts they've carried for years - or simply couldn't find the words to express.

Steve has a rare ability to notice and articulate things about recovery - and about being a survivor - that other people experience but struggle to explain. In many ways, he has become a walking retrospective: a rare perspective on what life looks like long after the rehabilitation ends.

Remember … this is not the end, it’s where we begin.