Latarsha’s story
While serving as an assistant principal in Atlanta, Latarsha traveled to Florida every weekend to care for her ailing grandmother after her mother's passing. Overworked and not eating properly, Latarsha suffered a stroke at work, temporarily losing her ability to speak. Then, amid the toll of losing both her grandmother and grandfather and separating from her husband, her health became less of a priority. After retiring and moving to Florida, Latarsha experienced a second stroke in 2016. Determined to improve her health, she adopted a more active lifestyle and works closely with her doctors to monitor her condition. Now, Latarsha encourages everyone to prioritize their health and consult a healthcare provider at the first sign of illness.
Latarsha that came here was literally walking dead. She was beaten, she was broken. Life really took a toll on her. And she didn't pay attention to taking care of herself. As a result of the stroke, I had weakness on my left side, and I had to walk with a cane for about three months. And I had to work up my ability to respond quickly, even in speech.
So when I am reaching for words, it's literally me slowing down, and it's like I am stopping and I'm looking up in this dictionary in the sky. It is the thing that Barbie helped me with for an entire year. She would be talking, and everything would be flowing smoothly, and then she would stop, and like, I can't find the word I'm looking for.
And I remember at one point we like, clasped hands, and she just kind of needed my energy for a minute.
Having the second event was upsetting. Honestly, I was very scared.
I take an aspirin every day, and I take a statin. So those are the only two things that I take. Not having a guarantee that these medications are going to keep me from having a stroke is nerve wracking. Why isn't there something already being tested or out there getting closer to figuring out something that can prevent strokes from happening?
Latarsha that we see now, she's living loudly, unapologetically, being a force to be reckoned with.
When I'm the best version of myself, then I can be a better mom, I can be a better wife, I can be a better teacher, I can be a better friend. This is a better version of me. This is a better energy that I'm putting out into the world. In the next chapter of my life, I just want to get better and better and better every day.
Subscribe to Our stories alerts
Beyond just relevant information about Bristol Myers Squibb's therapeutic areas and innovation, Our stories offer a window into the work our employees do every day for patients.
About Bristol Myers Squibb
Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. As global citizens, we work sustainably and responsibly to create a positive impact in the communities where we live and work.
