For Brain Injury Awareness Month, one woman shares a story of survival, loss, and learning what truly matters
In the spring of 2019, Shannel Pearman was doing what countless women do every day: welcoming a new life into the world. On May 25, she gave birth to her first child—a moment she describes as making her family feel complete.
One week later, everything changed.
Pearman, now sharing her story publicly in honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, has revealed the harrowing medical ordeal that followed her daughter’s birth. What began as a moment of joy quickly spiraled into a fight for survival.
Just seven days after delivery, the 29-year-old suffered a stroke that nearly took her life.
“I never thought I would have had a stroke at 29 years old,” Pearman wrote in a candid Instagram post. “Although it’s completely altered my life, it also pushed me to live life to the fullest and realize what truly matters! ❤️”
The stroke necessitated emergency brain surgery to save her life. In the days and weeks that followed, doctors removed half of her skull to allow her brain room to swell and heal. For a period, Pearman was required to wear a protective helmet.
Her husband, she noted, never left her side.
Eight weeks after the first procedure, she underwent a second brain surgery. This time, the outcome was more favorable. “Thank God the second surgery went well and I was able to go home,” she shared.
But survival came at a cost. Pearman survived the stroke and subsequent surgeries but lost some of her vision and experienced diminished brain function.
What followed, she described, was the hardest part of her recovery: learning how to be a new mother while navigating life with a brain injury and vision loss.
Despite her characteristic smile and efforts to remain positive, Pearman admitted she struggled deeply.
“I really struggled and went through a very dark depression,” she wrote.
Through prayer, therapy, and a strong support system, she was able to reach a better place. Now, six years after the stroke that changed her life forever, Pearman is sharing her story not only to mark her own survival but to raise awareness for others navigating similar journeys.
“I’m so thankful for more life! 🎉” she wrote in a recent post. “I’m so thankful I survived and I’m still here with my family.”
Pearman’s story underscores a sobering reality: stroke can strike at any age, even in the postpartum period. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pregnancy and the postpartum period carry an elevated risk of stroke, with blood pressure changes and other physiological factors contributing to increased vulnerability.
For Pearman, the experience has reframed her priorities.
“I know firsthand how short life can be… so we prioritize living life to the fullest,” she said.
Her message, shared during Brain Injury Awareness Month, serves as both a testament to resilience and a reminder to others facing similar battles that healing—while difficult—is possible.
“Sharing my story in honor of brain injury awareness month and for any new here! 🫶🏾” she wrote.
