Woman, 38, Suffers Stroke While Home Alone — and It’s Caught on Her Nanny Cam: ‘Felt Like I Blacked Out’

Woman’s Stroke Caught on Nanny Cam

Krista Figari, a 38-year-old special education teacher, found herself in a terrifying situation last April when she suffered a stroke while alone in her Manhattan apartment. The unexpected medical emergency unfolded as she went about her morning routine, only to lose her balance and collapse to the floor. The incident, which left the left side of her body immobilised, was captured on her home’s nanny cam.

In an interview with Good Morning America, Figari described the harrowing experience, saying, “A stroke was the last thing I ever expected… I felt like I blacked out for a second and was just on the floor.” Despite feeling helpless and unable to move, she managed to use Siri on her phone to call emergency services for help.

Medical responders swiftly arrived and transported Figari to New York-Presbyterian’s Weill Cornell Medical Center, where she was promptly treated by Dr. Nicholas Janocko, a vascular neurologist. She underwent thrombolysis, a procedure that successfully dissolved the blood clots causing the stroke. The quick actions taken by the medical team likely saved Figari from enduring long-term disability.

Following five days in the hospital, Figari made a remarkable recovery, experiencing only minor residual effects such as slight weakness in her left hand and mild facial drooping. Further investigations revealed that her stroke was triggered by an undetected congenital heart defect called a patent foramen ovale (PFO). She underwent a minimally invasive procedure to close the hole in her heart.

Upon reviewing the footage from her nanny cam, Figari was astounded to witness the moment her stroke occurred. Determined to raise awareness about stroke symptoms and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention, she shared her story with the hope of helping others recognise the signs and act promptly in similar emergencies.

Strokes, caused by a blood clot or a ruptured vessel obstructing blood flow to the brain, require urgent medical intervention to prevent severe outcomes. According to the Cleveland Clinic, strokes rank as the second leading cause of death globally and the fifth most prevalent in the United States. To aid in recognising stroke symptoms, experts recommend remembering the acronym “BE FAST” – Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, and Time – as key indicators to seek medical assistance promptly.

Figari’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of health crises and the critical importance of swift action in such circumstances. Her resilience and determination to raise awareness highlight the strength and courage individuals exhibit in the face of adversity. Figari’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the significance of advocating for one’s health and well-being.

As Figari continues her recovery journey, she hopes that sharing her experience will inspire others to prioritise their health and listen to their bodies. Her story underscores the vital role of prompt medical care in mitigating the effects of strokes and emphasises the value of proactive healthcare measures in safeguarding against unforeseen health challenges. Figari’s message resonates as a beacon of hope and resilience, encouraging others to remain vigilant and proactive in advocating for their health and well-being.