What if your body was screaming for help—and you didn’t even realize it?
That’s exactly what happened to Hyvelle Furguson-Davis. While cooking dinner one evening, she was in the middle of a stroke—and didn’t stop. In her mind, the food needed to be finished, the kids had practice, and she had a test to study for. Getting to the ER wasn’t on the agenda.
In the premier episode of our brand-new video podcast series, Love My Body, Love Myself, host Alicia Couri sits down with Hyvelle for an unforgettable conversation about survival, self-worth, and the healing power of advocacy.
And the timing couldn’t be more perfect—May is Stroke Awareness Month.
🎙 Why This Episode Matters
Hyvelle’s story is the wake-up call we all need.
At just 41 years old, she suffered a stroke that went unrecognized—first by herself, and then repeatedly by medical professionals. Just 30 days later, she experienced a heart attack, followed by a quadruple bypass surgery. Her complaints of back pain, arm numbness, and fatigue had been dismissed for over a year.
This is not uncommon. But what makes Hyvelle extraordinary is what she did after she survived.
Lessons in Self-Advocacy & Healing
In this emotionally raw and empowering episode, Alicia and Hyvelle unpack:
- The early symptoms of stroke and heart attack that are often ignored in women
- The emotional scars that take longer to heal than the physical ones
- Why women often put their health last—and how that has to change
- How to listen to your body and demand better from your doctors
- The birth of Heart Sistas, Hyvelle’s nonprofit supporting women facing similar health battles
Hyvelle shares how she used to hide the eight-inch scar on her chest with scarves—even in Florida’s blazing heat—because she no longer felt beautiful. But now? She wears that scar like a medal of honor. It’s a symbol of survival. Of rebirth. Of audacious confidence.
A Must-Watch for Every Woman
Whether you’re a caregiver, a busy mom, a high-powered professional—or all three—you need to hear this. This is more than a health podcast. It’s a permission slip to put yourself first.
🌐 Learn more about Hyvelle’s advocacy work at HeartSistas.com
Bonus: Watch Her TEDxMiramar Talk
If you think this conversation is powerful, wait until you hear Hyvelle speak on the TEDx stage.
She tackles a topic many avoid: intimacy after heart surgery. It’s bold, beautiful, and brave.
🎤 Watch now: Can You Have Sex After a Heart Attack? | TEDxMiramar
Final Thoughts
Love My Body, Love Myself is here to spark honest conversations about the health journeys we don’t always talk about—but desperately need to.
With each episode, we’ll explore the physical, emotional, and spiritual work of learning to truly love the body you’re in.
Because self-love isn’t just a mantra. It’s a lifestyle. And sometimes, it’s the difference between life and death
Watch. Reflect. Share.
This episode could save a life—including yours.