United States, 29th Nov 2025 – Most people start a new year with optimism and resolutions. For Jessica Sebastian, the beginning of 2023 brought a fight for survival. The Pittsburgh-based HR professional was hosting a cheerful New Year’s brunch when her life changed suddenly. A blood vessel in her brain ruptured, causing a hemorrhagic stroke that left her unable to move, speak, or see. Thanks to her friends’ quick actions, phoning ahead and getting her to the hospital, the emergency room staff and neurosurgeon were waiting and able to save her. In her new memoir, Stroke of Reality, Jessica reflects on the shocking event and the long, emotional journey that followed.
The memoir begins with the day everything came to a halt. Jessica describes collapsing in front of her closest friends, waking up weeks later after brain surgery, and realizing that half her body no longer worked. She spent eighteen days in a coma and months in rehabilitation, relearning how to walk, talk, and handle daily tasks. Her story highlights not only the physical challenges of recovery but also the deep emotional toll of losing independence. She writes honestly and humbly about the frustration, exhaustion, and fear that come with rebuilding a life from scratch.
What makes Stroke of Reality stand out is its focus on the unseen side of recovery. The author openly discusses depression, anxiety, and the invisible struggles that come with a brain injury. She shares the reality of living with left-side paralysis and the constant effort needed to stay motivated. Through her story, she emphasizes that recovery extends far beyond physical therapy and involves rediscovering one’s purpose and rebuilding one’s identity. Her reflections on mental health inspire understanding and compassion for those coping with invisible disabilities.
The book also explores the practical aspects of recovery. Jessica discusses her experiences working with doctors and therapists, finding effective rehabilitation programs, and advocating for her own care. She offers insight into support services, such as Occupational Vocational Rehabilitation, which helps people with disabilities return to meaningful work. Her experiences remind readers that recovery is both a personal and community effort, built on patience, persistence, and shared support.
Jessica Sebastian is known for her warmth, humor, and community spirit. A graduate of Butler County Community College, Geneva College, and Carnegie Mellon University, she built a successful career in human resources, enjoyed hosting gatherings, and spent her time traveling, playing sports, and relaxing with her dogs. The stroke changed her life, but it also gave her a new sense of appreciation and faith as she continues her rehab journey surrounded by family, friends, and her partner, Jason. She hopes her story encourages others to find courage in their struggles and understand that hardships are better faced with a supportive “framily” by your side.
Despite its serious themes, Stroke of Reality includes moments of humor and joy. The author’s stories of awkward recovery moments, from wardrobe mishaps to unexpected laughter, show how humor can bring strength. The book is available through major online retailers and digital platforms.
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