Valerie is no stranger to adversity. Having survived two strokes at age 31 that paralyzed her body and robbed her ability to speak, she held on to the belief that her life had a purpose and plan. Determined to heal, she spent years regaining and refining her abilities.
Now a worldwide symbol of hope and advocate for stroke awareness, Valerie is a published author and keynote speaker delivering a powerful message of courage,determination and success. From laughter to tears, Valerie tells her own gripping story and demonstrates the power of the human spirit when faced with adversity.
With humor, passion and insight, she touches hearts and encourages people in all walks to accept their challenges and to keep moving forward.
At age 31, Valerie Greene was a healthy, vibrant businesswoman until a massive stroke paralyzed the left side of her body and left her unable to speak. Doctors told her that she might never walk or talk again, and most of her hearing was lost. Determined to heal, she spent years regaining her abilities.
Now an internationally recognized advocate for stroke awareness, Valerie is sought out as a national keynote speaker delivering a powerful story of courage, determination and success. Author of The Fire Within: A True Story of Triumph over Tragedy, and soon to be released, Conquering Stroke: How I Fought My Way Back and How You Can Too (Wiley; May 2008), Valerie shares her extraordinary journey and offers a must-have guide for stroke prevention, treatment and recovery.
A captivating speaker with a great sense of humor, Valerie's message uplifts, inspires and motivates both individuals and organizations to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Shows such as Larry King Live have recognized her, and many celebrities and dignitaries including Kirk Douglas, Dr. Oz, Lieutenant Governor of Florida, the Mayor of Orlando, and the CEO of The American Heart Association have applauded her ongoing crusade to educate others about stroke and their own inner strength.
Valerie has worked at the state and congressional level to support legislation that ensures that stroke victims will be properly accessed and transported to an appropriate stroke treatment facility. She was instrumental in helping to pass the Florida Stroke Act that that Governor Jeb Bush signed into law on June 17, 2004.
On January 11, 2004, Valerie walked 13.1 miles in the Walt Disney half marathon for The American Stroke Association and raised over $10,000 in donations. She was awarded the Fund Raising Excellence Award for being the top fund-raiser in the country for The Train To End Stroke 2004 marathon.
Valerie has made several TV appearances both locally and nationally on NBC, CBS, ABC and FOX affiliates to name a few. She has been named a "Stroke Hero" by The American Stroke Association and has also been cited in multiple newspapers and magazines including Recipes for the Heart cookbook issued by The American Heart Association.
