I recently had the opportunity to interview Erika Goreski, a stroke survivor who, alongside fellow survivor Paul Nash, co-founded the Instagram and Facebook community BrainStorm. Their mission is to raise awareness that strokes don’t discriminate, to support others through recovery, and to remind us all of the importance of paying attention to our health.

Back in June, during Stroke Awareness Month, BIOS Medical shared an Instagram post about the FAST stroke symptoms (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911). Erika responded, pointing out that not all strokes follow this pattern, and the stroke narrative still seems outdated and largely geared towards an elderly demographic. Her comment struck us,  it was a reminder that stroke symptoms aren't always as simple as one checklist.

We reached out to ask if she would participate in a highlight on stroke survivors, and through our conversation, we learned about the incredible work she and Paul were doing with BrainStorm. That led to a deeper discussion and our interview.

Since BrainStorms launch over 1,200 people have joined the conversation!

Read “A letter to the BrainStorm community” here. 

The Story Behind BrainStorm

 When asked about the idea for the page, Erika shared:

“My friend Paul and I are collaborating on our page - his story is also an amazing one. I had the lifestyle that should have prevented a stroke - he lived a sedentary lifestyle battling food addiction and knew he was a ticking time bomb. But, strokes don't discriminate, and our contrasting lifestyles still lead to an experience that unites us. We feel that offers a really interesting perspective.”

Together, Erika and Paul launched BrainStorm as a space to connect with others, highlight survivor stories, and raise awareness that strokes can affect anyone.

“Real talk for young stroke survivors. Raw stories. Hard truths. Honest recovery.”

A Space for Connection

On their social media pages, Erika and Paul post content that speaks directly to young people and stroke survivors who are scared, uncertain, or struggling to navigate life after a stroke. Their goal is to make sure no survivor feels alone.

It’s not just about awareness — it’s about relating and connecting. By sharing their very different journeys, Erika and Paul show that stroke recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone, but the emotions, challenges, and triumphs can be universally understood.

Tools That Can Make a Difference

During our conversation, Erika reflected on how her stroke changed the way she thought about her health:

“I didn’t own a blood pressure monitor before my stroke — honestly, I didn’t think I needed one. Looking back, I wish I had been more proactive. Now I check regularly, and it gives me peace of mind.”

Her experience shows how simple health tools can provide both reassurance and independence for survivors:

• Blood Pressure Monitors: High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for stroke. At-home monitoring can help catch silent changes early. (Heart & Stroke, 2025)

• Pulse Oximeters: Monitoring oxygen levels and heart rate can provide survivors with confidence between doctor visits.

• Mobility Aids and Bath Safety Products: Erika noted the importance of everyday safety:

“When you’re recovering, even small things — like safely getting in and out of the shower — make such a difference. Having the right support tools helps you feel like yourself again.”

Moving Forward Together

For Erika, sharing her story is about connection and impact:

“If sharing our stories helps even one person recognize the signs, check their blood pressure, or feel less isolated in recovery, then it’s worth it.”

At BIOS Medical, we share in Erika and Paul’s commitment to awareness and prevention. By combining community advocacy with accessible health tools, we can all play a role in supporting survivors and helping more people take control of their health.

Follow Erika and Paul’s journey on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at @Brainstormchanges and join their growing community of survivors, advocates, and supporters.

Stay tuned for the BrainStorm YouTube, where they will be sharing more videos and stories... coming soon!