Update | August 28, 2026

Yesterday, Val began to experience symptoms like those that first sent her to the emergency room several weeks ago. Her doctors believe she may have suffered a second stroke. They also discovered that an artery in her neck that supplies blood to the brain is now approximately 80% blocked, an increase from 50% just three weeks ago.
 
Val has been transferred back to Macon, where she is awaiting a procedure to place a stent and restore blood flow through the affected artery.
 
There has also been an encouraging sign in the midst of this setback. During a recent therapy session, Val experienced pain and returning sensation in the hand affected by her first stroke. She remains hopeful that restoring blood flow, along with continued therapy and rehabilitation, will help her regain more function in that hand.
 
This is another difficult and unexpected turn in what was already going to be a long recovery. Val and her family continue to face mounting medical expenses and time away from work, and the support they have received from friends, colleagues, and the community has meant so much. 
 
Please continue to keep Val in your thoughts and prayers as she prepares for this next procedure. We'll share another update when we know more.