Baltimore DJ Survives Two Strokes to Inspire Others

Shelbe Hudson, a 34-year-old resident of Owings Mills, spent the past decade balancing a career in analysis with her work as a DJ. Her path to recovery began in her mid-20s when she started suffering from headaches and blurry vision.

Hudson initially ignored the symptoms. She told her mother that her vision was unclear, but she dismissed the advice to see a doctor. Days later, a physician told her she was having a stroke and needed immediate hospitalization. She spent six months unable to drive before returning to her mixes.

Seven years after that first event, Hudson felt unwell one morning before a scheduled performance. She attempted to call her parents, but neither answered. She then called 911 and realized she could not speak clearly. She believed she was talking, but she was only mumbling.

Unable to communicate and left alone, Hudson walked down her street searching for help. She found a neighbor and threw her phone into the neighbor's car to signal an emergency. She collapsed as soon as responders arrived. Doctors confirmed it was her second stroke.

The second recovery was far more difficult than the first. Hudson remained in Sinai Hospital for one month. She had to relearn how to walk, talk, and write. She stated that she did not think she would ever speak again. Her mother supported her by bringing her DJ equipment to the hospital during her stay.

Hudson will turn 35 on November 1. She reached out to the American Heart Association to share her experience. Earlier this month, she performed at the Baltimore Heart Walk. She combines her passion for music with her advocacy for stroke awareness.

Hudson urges others to pay attention to physical changes. She advises people to seek medical care if they feel anything is wrong. She notes that early prevention is essential, even if patients dislike visiting hospitals. She says she wants to inspire others to keep going because strokes can happen to anyone at a young age.