American Heart Association

Stroke survivor, Kylie Lough, shares her story of survival and recovery

A competitive rower, Kylie Lough was participating in a rowing program in New Zealand before the start of her freshmen year at college.

While staying at her team’s mountain village, Kylie started to black out and couldn’t speak or move.
A severe snowstorm outside made Kylie’s trip to the hospital nearly impossible.
After being questioned heavily about her symptoms, an MRI confirmed Kylie had suffered a stroke.
Overcoming so many odds, Kylie was able to row again and is now determined to educate others, especially her generation, about stroke risk, signs, and symptoms.
The following is Kylie’s story and not an endorsement or diagnosis. Stories have been edited down for time. Kylie is a member of the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women 2024 Class of Survivors.