Strange Truths

Summary

Victoria Ponte defies expectations post-stroke, leading a life filled with remarkable experiences and achievements.

Abstract

Victoria Ponte's life took an unexpected turn after suffering a severe stroke at age 35 during pregnancy, yet she overcame the odds to engage in unique adventures and personal milestones. Despite physical challenges, she has traveled extensively, pursued creative hobbies, and formed significant relationships. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unpredictability of life, as she has managed to write, publish, and sell books, participate in extreme sports, and navigate complex personal dynamics with grace and determination.

Opinions

The author believes in the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome life-altering events.
There is a sense of gratitude and appreciation for life's experiences, regardless of how unconventional they may be.
The narrative suggests that personal connections and relationships are important elements of recovery and personal growth.
The author seems to find humor and irony in life's circumstances, as evidenced by the anecdote about the Christmas gift exchange.
There is an underlying theme of embracing one's circumstances and living life to the fullest, despite physical limitations or societal expectations.

It’s true the truth is stranger than fiction

I can hardly walk but I got out of the car in Times Square in my pajamas for a photoshoot. I carried a cane, limping, on safari all through Africa. I struggled my way up the towers in the mountains to go zip lining in the forests of Costa Rica. I crafted a beaded necklace with one hand as a Christmas gift for my husband’s girlfriend. She made a hand painted tackle box for my beading supplies as a housewarming gift for me. My new boyfriend drove my brother to a different prison. I met my second lover when I was 52. I can ride a horse but I can’t ride a man. I gave birth while I was paralyzed. I had my first and only one night stand in Amsterdam. I’ve written, published and sold a few books. I hiked around the steep streets of the Amalfi Coast in Italy. I jump in the lake but I can’t swim.

All of the above statements are completely true. What makes them stranger than fiction is the fact that the more likely outcomes for my life following a severe stroke at age 35 during pregnancy were death or more serious disability.