Wimer recovering after sudden stroke
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The day after Christmas, Shelly Wimer experienced a sudden stroke while shopping at the grocery store.
Mike and Shelly Wimer
“We are so thankful that she chose to go to Hy-Vee that afternoon for groceries and that she received emergency care immediately,” stated Angela Nelson on a CaringBridge page set up for Wimer.
After an ambulance ride to Ringgold County Hospital and another to MercyOne in Des Moines, Wimer spent the first night in the Emergency Room (ER) at MercyOne. A blockage on the left side of her brain affected her ability to talk and is impacting the responsiveness of the right side of her body.
“We are so proud of the fight she is already showing,” stated Angela Nelson. “Her brain has a blockage-they say there wasn’t a blood clot that they could remove, but an area is seen that no blood flow is moving. This created swelling but that has been stable and hopefully decreasing daily.”
Wimer was moved into the Neurology ICU the second day and was responsive to family members and nurses at times. Other times, it was difficult to wake her. Although her vital signs looked promising, her care team watched her carefully. The family knew they were facing a marathon, and not sprint. Wimer continued to have regular vital and neuro checks and was very sleepy.
Wimer started physical and occupational therapy on day four, and therapists helped her sit on the edge of bed and stand with lots of support.
“This is one of the many miracles and evidence of fight that Shelly has shown us,” stated Nelson. “She is much more alert and appears to be understanding a lot of what we say to her. Pretty sure she gave us a smirk.”
Wimer stayed in a Neuro ICU room for roughly a week according to CaringBridge updates. On the eighth day, she transitioned to the Progressive Care Unit (PCU) unit, a step-down from ICU.
While visits have been appreciated, the family suggests checking in with Mike or Tiffany before arriving to see what room Shelly is in. General visiting hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Mount Ayr Ember’s and Fire Department are working with the Ringgold County Cattlemen, the Fair Board, and other community partners to hold a fundraiser, which will be announced once initial planning has been coordinated.
There is also an account set up at First Interstate Bank for Mike and Shelly under “Shelly Wimer Benefit” for anyone that would like to donate towards the family’s expenses, including loss of income, overnight accommodations and food for family members staying close by. Donations should indicate on the check memo that funds are for Shelly Wimer’s Benefit Account, and can be mailed to:
First Interstate Bank
100 E South St
PO Box 629
Mount Ayr, IA 50854
Updates about Wimer’s progress can be found on the CaringBridge website by searching for Shelly Wimer: www.caringbridge.org
