Cathy’s Latest Release
About The Book
This is the raw, unflinching story of my difficult journey from a life-changing stroke at age 27 as a new Mom, to a rewarding life as an adaptable and engaged woman who is “differently abled.”
I take you along as I relive my struggles, triumphs and key rehabilitation milestones, evolving through fear and guilt as I relearn how take to care of myself, and my infant daughter; then the setback of another, more debilitating stroke six years later, followed by my determined, and ultimately successful efforts to return to a career and the family life I love.
It’s about 40 years of neuroplasticity. It’s never about perfection or even full “healing” in the traditional sense – it’s about adapting, growing and finding meaning in the life you’ve been given, not the one you planned.
Whether you’re living with a disability, caring for someone who is, or just navigating your own unexpected challenges, this book will leave you more positive and inspired.
about me
Catherine Allard
(aka Cathy Roberts)
I survived two strokes before age 35 and spent four decades mastering what neuroplasticity really means. I served in communications at Justice Canada, volunteer with Bruyère Health promoting stroke rehab and research, and work with the Heart and Stroke Foundation to close the dangerous knowledge gap in women’s health awareness.
reader
Reviews
Thank you Cathy, the pleasure is mine. A best-seller you’ve written, to help stroke patients for all time!!!
– Dr. Hillel Finestone – Director, Stroke Rehabilitation Research, Bruyère Health, Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa and keynote speaker on neuroplasticity at my book launch in September 2024
This inspirational memoir is both heartbreaking but uplifting at the same time. Cathy’s indomitable spirit has helped her to find solutions to problems that would have knocked most of us flat. She is a gifted writer who shares her pain and her joys with an open heart. She made me cry but she also made me laugh. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand chronic pain and for anyone who loves stories of courage and fortitude. I loved this beautiful book.
– Vera Adamovich, August 2024
Cathy has a wonderful writing style. Chapter on Leg Brace and Botox reads well. We need more books like this!
– Dr. Peter K. Stys – Professor, Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine University of Calgary
Honours
The response to Becoming Comfortably Numb has been phenomenal!
Book Me For Your Next Event
What I Love To Talk About
In addition to book readings, I have made presentations on my experiences, and stroke awareness in general, at professional and social gatherings, both in-person and virtually, including health educator and publishing conferences, 55+ lifestyle events, and seniors’ residences, and have been featured on podcasts and in print articles.
I am committed to increasing awareness amongst women of our increased and unique risks of stroke throughout our lives. Current research indicates that 89 percent of Canadian women have no knowledge of this.
I love helping empower you with practical tips about how to learn more about your own health risks and well-being and how to manage setbacks. I am most passionate about:
