Woman details her sudden paralysis to health fair audience

YOUNGSTOWN

In June 2008, Myrtis Thornton realized shortly after applying makeup to her face that she suddenly had no control over her right hand and left leg.

Soon after that shocking revelation, Thornton’s speech and handwriting deteriorated, prompting the concern of several friends and family members.

“My son grabbed me and said, ‘We’re going [to the hospital] now,’” said Thornton, recalling the stroke she suffered while preparing to attend a funeral.

The Boardman woman shared her frightening story during a 30-minute workshop on stroke and diabetes prevention that was part of Saturday’s three-hour “Step in the Name of Love” health fair at Williamson Elementary School, 58 Williamson Ave., on the city’s South Side.

The free program, sponsored by the Youngstown Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., featured line dancing, medical screenings, workshops, healthy foods, nutritional tips and massages — all to promote good health practices.

Read about the outcome of Thornton's story and more on the health fair in Sunday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.