A Stroke Slowed Him Down, But Didn’t Stop Him
Al S. from Pennsylvania was slowed down by a stroke, but he doesn't plan on quitting playing the drums.
I’ve been playing music since I was 8 or 9, beginning with the accordian for a few years, then trumpet — but at 16 I found my axe: the drums. I am now 59.
I have been in bands most of my life, generally rock cover bands. I also play some jazz, which I love. Recently I had a stroke, but was fortunate enough to come out of it unimpaired, although the meds I take now make me a bit tired.
After the stroke I quit the band I’ve been in for the past 7 years. The output of energy required to load up 200+ pounds of equipment and then play and sing for 3 to 4 hours is too much for me. I plan on getting into a lower-key jazz thing, maybe doing standards, after I get my health issues straightened out. I certainly do not plan to quit playing. Ever.
Al S.
Doylestown, Pa.
6 comments
Posted 01/21/10 at 4:02 pm
Inspiring story, great attitude. I’m glad you came through your stroke ok. I know how tough it is to lug all your gear around and then play all evening. Even tougher when it’s over and you have to break down and pack up afterwards. I had a back injury and had to slow down for a while. When I play clubs now, I use a smaller jazz kit, (20′ 12″ 14″ 14″ snare), and I invested in a folding hand truck, ( music stores have em but they’ll soak you around $100, I found one at Big Lots for $30), and I can get everything in two trips. It’s a lot easier on the back too. For bigger shows, I’m able to get help setting up. Hope ya get healthier and back to playing soon. God bless…………………Liquidrummr.
Posted 01/24/10 at 3:56 am
It’s so refreshing to read about successful recovery’s from strokes, especially musicians. I’m a recovering stroke victim and a harp player of 30yrs +. As well as a cancer (leukemia) survivor. I had my stroke in April 2009, 2 wks after completing 5yrs of chemo. I never gave up the ship, although having a bout of depression. The stroke took out my entire right side. My friends/fellow musicians, came to my side with so much support and love that i had no choice but work my ass off to show them my appreciation for their energy and continueing support. In the first three weeks i had started to adapt to playing with my left hand. Pics are posted on “facebook” under – warren kucera. Since then, i have improved to the point that i now am beginning to use both hands. I’m not going to take a break untill i’m happy with my progress. My rt. leg has come back appx 75% and can walk about a block befor tiring. I shure understand the stamina factor. I’m turning 64 soon and look forward to a nearly normal life. Bless you brother for sharing your story. Success stories need to be shared to give other victims confidence that healing is possible, but not without pain and love. There is no easy path to healing!!! And DON’T GIVE UP, …….. EVER!!!!! Keep it up. Koochman.
Posted 06/30/10 at 7:51 am
Playing music is what has helped get me through some health issues of my own. It’ is an essential connection with the life force flowing in all of us. I am so glad to hear that you are working your way through your condition and that you still plan to continue with that which has given you such vitality. Rock on, man! It’s what we do
Posted 06/30/10 at 9:40 am
that is a good story that makes people fell good! mostpeople are left by them selves feeling down but this story leaves ME feeling up!
Posted 06/30/10 at 9:02 pm
“GOOD FOR YOU, KEEP GOING FOR AS LONG AS GOD ALLOWS” !!
iT’S HARD TO KEEP A GOOD MAN DOWN, NOT AS LONG AS I’M BREATHING. !!
Posted 07/01/10 at 2:52 am
Keep rockin! I’m fighting for myblufe with breast cancer for 2 yrs now…I like you will never stop being who in ” singer songwriter” god bless you Michele
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