Illuminated Stories After Stroke

Thank you for being part of our story.

October 1, 2026
Portland, OR

A storytelling evening of reflection, connection, and hope.

Wow, we are overwhelmed with gratitude. We expected 100 people to join us in illuminating wisdom, purpose, connection, and hope that has emerged post-stroke. We were moved and delighted to see our expectations doubled, packing McMenamins Kennedy School Theater with individuals who traveled from near and far to hold space for our Storytellers, themselves, and those beyond.

We are grateful to our Storytellers who devoted seven weeks helping each other reflect, reframe, and reclaim their stories in the Illuminated Stories After Stroke workshop. We also appreciate our partners and supporters who empower our programs. Big thanks to our many volunteers who helped set up, guide, greet, and clean up! And gratitude to our generous videographer Chris of CDP Media and cinematographer Kian of Northwest Academy for filming the evening. We plan to send story recordings with subtitles out in the next few weeks.

At the end of the evening, audience members shared a word or phrase they wanted to remember about our time together. Here is a short list:

This gives me a fresh start.

All moments can combine to one big spark.

Look for the light.

I am more than a stroke.

I feel sheltered here.

Gratitude fills gaps.

The fight in the dog.

My name is Angel James. I am here.

What will my legacy be?

I am not alone. You are not alone.

Be present. Let go. Look forward.

You got this.

Be yourself.

I feel so blessed to be here tonight.

Shit! My life is on fire! So many sparks!

Breathe.

We breathed together, not just Jesuit High School’s Choir of twenty-two Chamber Singers, but survivors, carepartners, family members, doctors, therapists, nurses, emergency responders, and friends. In that blessed space, we found that we are all at a different point on our own journey and that we all have an important role in each other’s story. May we continue to offer our strengths, talents, and experiences to support, inspire, and lift each other.

Each and every individual has a role in honoring and illuminating the deep, wise, and connected part of each other. May we continue to offer that space moving forward.

With Double Gratitude,

Molly Buccola
Founder and Facilitator

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Story Recording Links Below:

Seeing and knowing that most of the storytellers live with aphasia was meaningful to me. I’m so impressed by the bravery of the storytellers. I want more of us to be seen and heard in this way.
I really felt when the speakers were vulnerable. It was meaningful to feel the heartbreak AND the healing and courage that comes after. I loved that every storyteller’s personality shined through their stories. So inspiring! - Alexis
The choir was stunning! Each story was impactful! This event was inspiring in more words than I can express. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. - Tyler
Each story was deeply meaningful and inspirational. The choir was amazing and the song selection was spot on. - George
This was a healing event for me and I’m grateful that all the nurses in my row heard these stories too. - Ann
Everything about this evening was inspirational and as a healthcare worker, it is so wonderful to witness life after stroke. Please keep sharing stories. They give so much hope!
It takes many to accomplish much. These stories must be fully heard. Thank you! My heart is full. Gratitude. - Melissa
The candles, music, and genuine expressions of the storytellers was a gift. I’m honored to be here tonight and a part of honoring the lives of the storytellers. I’m thankful to be here even though you don’t know me…yet. - Beth
It was meaningful to hold space for the emotions and joy of the Storytellers. I’m humbled to be amongst you all. Your bravery is to be revered. Thank you. Heart.
This was awesome! It was powerful to breathe together and to create space for each story. This was a very special evening. - Anna
So many of us need to find our voice, our story. It works by FOSTERING DEEP LISTENING. I loved this sharing tonight! - Cathy
It was meaningful to hear the variety of stories. Tonight I experienced the impact of community.
All of the stories were great. Thank you for sharing. The atmosphere with candles and JMS music was amazing and an excellent addition! You are all so brave! Thank you for sharing! Your stories are important.
Everything about this evening was meaningful to me. Keep telling stories!
Every single story was meaningful - wonderful. The singers were an excellent addition. - Kim

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Illuminated Stories After Stroke

A storytelling evening of reflection, connection, and hope.

Story Recording Links Below:

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