When reading an author’s recollection of the sudden, awful realization she is having a stroke, and of the ensuing fear and uncertainty associated with how one’s life may forever change, roll-on-the-floor hilarity isn’t the first reaction that comes to mind. However, Kimberly Davis Basso manages to produce such a gem with I’m a Little Brain Dead. It should be said, in all seriousness, that suffering a stroke is no laughing matter. A shame no one informed Ms. Basso. Walking the reader through her experience from the initial event, to her first of numerous hospital visits, an untold number of medical practitioner interactions, plus an MRI freak out, we’re treated to a wonderful lesson in how keeping one’s sense of humor can get one through even the toughest of situations. And as an added bonus, how to survive the zombie apocalypse – I promise I won't spoil the surprise here.
I’m a Little Brain Dead is not without its poignant and serious moments. Ms. Basso’s life was saved by her 8-year-old daughter knowing the procedure for dialing 911. An accompanying Appendix provides many important tips when faced with a medical emergency. And when facing surgery to repair Ms. Basso’s hole in her heart? Well, who better to laugh in the face of danger than our intrepid author, even though she may quite possibly be dehydrated – you really need to read the book. In fact, I had so much fun reading Ms. Basso’s romp through the fields of medical practitioner double-speak that I’m thinking of scheduling a procedure for next Tuesday.