#United States #Woodbury #Kenneth Kerns #Anything but Frank #Stroke Survivor

Overcoming Adversity: The Inspiring Journey of Kenneth Kerns

Kenneth Kerns, once a dynamic safety executive and resilient cancer survivor, faced the unimaginable in April 2020. A devastating hemorrhagic stroke changed his life, leaving him in a coma and battling paralysis and aphasia. His new memoir, "Anything but Frank: A Journey of Healing, Patience, and Rediscovery," chronicles this challenging journey, revealing not just the physical but also the emotional and spiritual aspects of recovery.

Life Before the Stroke

Kerns had always been a problem solver, thriving in his role at the university, dedicated to safety and well-being. His days were filled with problem-solving, leading teams, and supporting others. However, this all came to a sudden halt when a stroke struck without warning. Kerns was found unconscious on his bathroom floor by his wife, Karri. He underwent emergency surgery and was placed into a medically induced coma for ten days to allow his brain to heal.

Awakening from the Coma

When Kerns finally awoke, he faced a stark new reality. His right side was paralyzed, and he struggled to communicate due to aphasia. The name "Frank" echoed in his confused mind, shouted from within as he longed to assert his identity as "Ken." This internal conflict symbolized the loss of his former self and the distress that isolation during the pandemic had wrought on his recovery. Thankfully, a FaceTime call from his wife helped him reconnect with his identity and provide comfort.

The Journey of Recovery

Kerns’ memoir intricately describes the ups and downs of his recovery process. Seven dream-like chapters offer readers a vivid glimpse into his mind, blending surreal narratives with his traumatic experiences in the hospital. These chapters convey his feelings of fear, isolation, and ultimately, hope. Each small victory during his rehabilitation, from a twitch of his thumb to standing unaided, highlighted the perseverance required to reclaim his life.

The author’s journey symbolizes how recovery can be framed as a mosaic of small triumphs. Each step forward—whether it was achieving his first steps with a walker or finding his voice again—holds profound significance, reminding us of the power of persistence and faith.

Kerns faced the daily challenges of living with aphasia with courage. Through rigorous therapy and support from Minnesota Connect Aphasia Now (MnCAN), he not only regained his speech but also emerged as a leader, ultimately becoming the president of the organization. His story reflects a transformation that encompasses emotional and spiritual growth, shifting the narrative from mere survival to living with intention and gratitude.

Healing Beyond the Physical

"Anything but Frank" is not merely a recounting of a grievous event; it is a testimony to the multifaceted nature of healing. Kerns acknowledges that recovery transcends physical recovery—it involves emotional and relational dimensions, redefining life based on presence, compassion, and community.

The memoir stands as a source of inspiration for those facing similar struggles. It teaches that healing is a transformative process that can lead to a deeper appreciation for life’s small moments. Kenneth Kerns serves as a reminder that even in the face of insurmountable odds, hope, love, and faith can pave the way to recovery.

Available now at Archway Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble, "Anything but Frank" not only narrates one man’s battle but also encourages others to find strength and purpose amidst adversity.