Mike and Becky Heffernan were introduced to one another when they joined a stroke support group. “This came about when our former spouses both had strokes. We joined one of the first stroke support groups in Oklahoma City”, said Mike. They were caregivers to their spouses and their association developed into a strong friendship. A few years later their spouses died and after a period of time Mike and Becky decided to marry and work together in the National Stroke Association, a part of the American Heart Association, visiting stroke survivors and caregivers.

Mike and Becky Heffernan

Mike suffered a hemorrhagic stroke in 1998. After several months of rehabilitation, he was able to get back to “almost normal”.

When INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center developed its Stroke Peer Visitor volunteer program, Mike and Becky immediately joined and have been active in the program for several years. “Becky and I both love working in the Peer Visitor Program. We can be so close to these survivors, giving them tips and information on what to expect and also referral information”, Mike continues, “We hope to continue in this as long as we can.”

Contact
Julia Hunt, RN, CAVS
INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center
Director of Volunteer Services
(405) 636-7075
julia.hunt@integris-health.com