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Episode 81: Managing PFO after Stroke: A discussion on diagnosis, treatment options including the patient perspectives and quality of life decisions with David Thaler,MD of Tufts Medical Center.

This conversation in collaboration with the SAYA Consortium explores the relationship between patent foramen ovale (PFO) and stroke, particularly in young adults. Our expert guest, Dr. David Thaler, a vascular neurologist with Tufts Medical Center, discusses the definition of PFO, its diagnosis, and its implications for stroke risk. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding cryptogenic strokes, which often have no identifiable cause, the PFO paradox and how a PFO is often discovered with cryptogenic strokes, the diagnostic tests and the management options available for patients with PFO. The conversation emphasizes the need for patient education and awareness regarding stroke risks and prevention strategies. In this conversation, Dr. Thaler discusses the implications of PFO closure in recurrent stroke prevention, medical management and the importance of patient choice and quality of life, plus the outcomes of the RESPECT Trial. Co-host David Dansereau shares his patient experience as a stroke survivor with PFO who elected for device closure. The dialogue highlights the evolving landscape of PFO research and the significance of understanding individual patient risks and lifestyle choices.

More About Our Guest: David Thaler,MD-Tufts Medical Center

Show mentions: Lester Leung,MD, Katelyn Skeels, SAYA Consortium, RESPECT Trial , Co-Host David's Book Closure

Thanks to: Rory Polera (guest on Ep.69), stroke survivor and interview outline reviewer with SAYA Consortium

Additional Education:

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Show credits:
Music intro credit to Jake Dansereau. Our intro welcome is the voice of Caroline Goggin, a stroke survivor and our first podcast guest! Please listen to her inspiring story on Episode 2 of the podcast.

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Know Stroke Podcast Disclaimer:
Our podcast and media advertising services are for informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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In this episode of the Know Stroke Podcast, hosts David Dansereau and Mike Garrow reconnect after a break to recap everything that happened at ISC25 and the National Advisory Committee meeting.

Fresh off the heels of the International Stroke Conference (ISC25), they discuss key takeaways from the event, including:
✅ The latest innovations in stroke rehabilitation, including VR, gamification, and alternative care models
✅ The critical role of stroke nurse navigators in post-stroke recovery
✅ The need for stronger representation of stroke survivors at major conferences
✅ The ongoing challenges in stroke prevention, education, and care

They also share insights on upcoming Know Stroke Podcast episodes, future guest interviews, and why community-based support and survivor advocacy remain at the forefront of improving stroke care.

💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The International Stroke Conference (ISC) is a major event shaping the future of stroke care and rehabilitation.
• Post-stroke care is gaining attention, with new rehab innovations like VR and gamification making an impact.
• Stroke nurse navigators play a crucial role in guiding survivors through the recovery process.
• Survivor voices need more representation in stroke research and professional conferences.
• Community support and education are essential for stroke prevention and long-term recovery.

Show mentions:

• David's Believe in Balance Podcast on Apple
• David's reference to Know Stroke Newsletter now on Substack

Support Our Show!
Thank you for helping us to continue to make great content. We appreciate your generosity!

Support the show

Show credits:
Music intro credit to Jake Dansereau. Our intro welcome is the voice of Caroline Goggin, a stroke survivor and our first podcast guest! Please listen to her inspiring story on Episode 2 of the podcast.

Connect with Us and Share our Show on Social:
Website | Linkedin | Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Substack

Know Stroke Podcast Disclaimer:
Our podcast and media advertising services are for informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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In this special episode recorded live at the International Stroke Conference (ISC25), we dive into the American Stroke Association’s pilot program, Stroke Connections. This initiative is designed to amplify the voices of stroke survivors and caregivers, ensuring their lived experiences are heard at the conference—a group that has historically been underrepresented in stroke research and advocacy.

Join me as I chat with Stephanie Mohl, National Vice President of the American Stroke Association, and two inspiring stroke survivors and advisory committee members, Gracie Doran and Michelle Ballasiotes (previous guest on Episode 55). We discuss how the Stroke Connections pilot is bridging the gap between research and lived experience, and the importance of community and advocacy for improving stroke care.

While the program is still in its early stages, the goal is to secure sponsors to expand and make survivor perspectives a permanent part of future conferences.

Takeaways from this episode:

• The International Stroke Conference is a critical platform for both research and survivor voices.
• Incorporating survivor experiences into research and conferences can lead to more impactful stroke care and advocacy.
• The Stroke Connections program provides an opportunity to amplify the voices of survivors and caregivers in shaping stroke care and research.

Support Our Show!
Thank you for helping us to continue to make great content. We appreciate your generosity!

Support the show

Show credits:
Music intro credit to Jake Dansereau. Our intro welcome is the voice of Caroline Goggin, a stroke survivor and our first podcast guest! Please listen to her inspiring story on Episode 2 of the podcast.

Connect with Us and Share our Show on Social:
Website | Linkedin | Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Substack

Know Stroke Podcast Disclaimer:
Our podcast and media advertising services are for informational purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Get Our Podcast News Updates on Substack