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I read through a number of stories from survivors and noticed the common thread of wanting to help others avoid or be aware of stroke symptoms before they become a reality. Without a long story Blood Pressure plays a key role in these stories. I was told 130/135 was normal which they now know is 120 to be normal. I came home from work and it was just another typical demanding day. I spent some time with my wife and before retiring i got up for one more bathroom call and everything went out as I went unconscious and fell. I tried to get up, I called out to my wife and she tried to help me up but my core strength was gone and i couldn't get up. Little did i know the aneurysm had occurred. But then I drooled and I knew immediately i had had a stroke because my father had three strokes and drooled. The last stroke for him proved fatal. My wife called 911. I was taken to UCLA in westwood , fortunately for me thats the number one facility for a stroke attack. My left side failed fully including my left lung. A massive stroke, and an emergency tracheotomy and a stomach tube and into an induced coma so the brain could reabsorb the blood as the bleed was more central in my brain, not an easy operation. Coming out of the coma i couldn't talk or use my left side totally bedridden. That was the start of whats become a four year journey.. But the odds of not making it were 60/40 so im ahead so to say. But i wouldnt wish this on anyone. So pay attention to your blood pressure and keep your blood vessels as clean as you can. LonTinney