It’s 11:00 AM on Tuesday, August 11, and only a few people have arrived for our annual SSA Summer Picnic. With 28 RSVPs, I begin to worry that perhaps only a handful will come. But gradually, more familiar faces appear—some we haven’t seen at meetings for quite a while and others who have only recently joined our stroke support group.... Read More
Recently, we published a blog post on Jenn Keeley, a young stroke survivor from our online support group. Jenn has written poetry about her experience, and we are grateful that she has shared two of her poems with us. If you missed the article about Jenn, click here. MAKE A WISH I wish I may, I wish I might not overthink... Read More
By the age of 27, Jenn Keeley had already survived two ischemic strokes. Today, at 44, she continues to navigate the lasting effects of those strokes, along with a seizure disorder and other health challenges. Yet despite the obstacles she has faced, Jenn’s story is ultimately one of determination, resilience, and rediscovering joy. Jenn’s first stroke occurred in October 2009.... Read More
Our Stroke Support groups on March 24th were well attended by newer members and those who have attended for many years. After discussions on acceptance and shared ideas on coping with the challenges of travel, members moved into the church auditorium for a catered lunch. El Pollo Loco again provided a delicious variety of entrees enjoyed by all. Along with... Read More
On March 25, 2026, Tsgoyna Tanzman, MA, CCC-SLP—life coach and author of Hope After Stroke for Caregivers and Survivors—presented “Rewriting the Next Chapter” to members of Stroke Support Association (SSA). More than 35 people attended. Tsgoyna opened with a powerful insight:“A thought that often runs on a loop for stroke survivors and caregivers is, ‘I want my life back.’ At... Read More
On March 2, Stroke Support Association (SSA) partnered with the Los Altos YMCA in Long Beach to deliver an important message: when it comes to stroke, knowledge can save lives. Leading the presentation was Angie West, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, SCRN, ANVP, Program Manager Neuroscience/Stroke at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, who is also a member of SSA’s Board of Directors.... Read More
Stroke Support Association (SSA) hosted an information table in the 16th Annual Women’s Heart & Stroke Seminar on February 21, 2026, held at Memorial Care Long Beach Medical Center. The event brought together community members and healthcare professionals for an important conversation about heart and brain health. With stroke ranking as the fifth leading cause of death in the United... Read More
A Virtual Presentation Who: Tsgoyna Tanzman, MA, CCC-SLP, Life CoachAuthor of Hope After StrokeWhen: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 / 10:00–11:00 AM Pacific Time In this practical, compassionate talk, Tsgoyna helps survivors and caregivers name the “lost chapter” (identity + grief), learn simple tools to begin the rewrite (breath, small wins, micro-rituals), and step into a new narrative where hope is... Read More
On January 20, 2026, volunteers from Stroke Support Association’s Hospital Visitors Program—Fran Valenzuela, Tim Price, and Ali Parker—joined facilitator and Board President Gretchen Phillips for a working lunch at Taboons Mediterranean Restaurant in Long Beach, CA. What is SSA’s Hospital Visitors Program? The Hospital Visitors Program is made up of trained volunteers from SSA’s stroke survivors support group. These volunteers visit... Read More
Stroke Support Association (SSA) celebrated its Annual Holiday Luncheon on December 10, 2025, bringing warmth, joy, and community spirit to a brand-new venue—The Grand in Long Beach. Guests were treated to exceptional service, delicious cuisine, and an inviting atmosphere that set the tone for a memorable occasion. Board President Gretchen Phillips delivered an inspiring address, highlighting SSA’s accomplishments over the past year—from engaging social outings to... Read More