Javier’s Stroke Survivor Story and Experiences

“The first time I could stand [again] was amazing. The first time I could walk again—incredible. And the first time that I could go upstairs—incredible.”

Javier Martín

With a high level of fitness and having recently run a marathon, the idea of Javier having a stroke seemed impossible. Yet, the impossible happened. And it happened in waves.

Javier suffered a staggering three strokes. He describes it as a tsunami, engulfing not only him but his family too. He lost his control, his voice, and his independence.

His story is one of resilience and determination to rebuild, not only for himself, but for his family. Yet, beneath his unwavering determination, a lingering fear remains: the possibility that another stroke could strike without warning, threatening to take away everything he has fought so hard to regain.

Dodo Newman

“This piece visualizes a stroke survivor’s inner world, likened to a tsunami—sudden, chaotic, and destructive. Waves symbolize trauma and aftermath. Dark colors evoke disorientation, while torn areas symbolize deep ruptures. Lighter elements hint at detachment and the struggle to reconnect, capturing both trauma and resilience. Javier's journey began dark, but healing is like vibrant spring colors. Inner peace is his greatest strength.”

Dodo Newman – the artist

Dodo Newman, an international artist based in Germany, found that the project resonated deeply with her mission of bridging the inner and outer worlds, inviting viewers to explore the interconnectedness of our existence. She saw it as a unique initiative that unites diverse fields—from health and personal journeys of struggles to art—and believed that the world needed more projects sharing such profound messages. She felt privileged to have been part of it.

Two-photo collage showing stroke survivor Hyvelle in a Teal jacket with the hashtag #NoToTwo and another photo with a man sitting beside her.

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Top view of 5 healthcare professionals in green and purple scrubs standing together and reviewing documents.

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“I’m Javier, a husband, a father, and I had to learn to walk, talk, and live again.”

“The first time I could stand [again] was amazing. The first time I could walk again—incredible. And the first time that I could go upstairs—incredible.”

Video title

Dodo Newman – the artist

“I was a person who was always kind of in control of everything, and I felt a loss of control.”

Secondary stroke prevention

Burden of stroke

Test your stroke knowledge

This website is intended to provide information to healthcare professionals in the United States.

“I’m Javier, a husband, a father, and I had to learn to walk, talk, and live again.”

“The first time I could stand [again] was amazing. The first time I could walk again—incredible. And the first time that I could go upstairs—incredible.”

Video title

Dodo Newman – the artist

“I was a person who was always kind of in control of everything, and I felt a loss of control.”

Secondary stroke prevention

Burden of stroke

Test your stroke knowledge