This year, we are honored to celebrate Vickie’s 13th anniversary since surviving her double brain aneurysm on Mother’s Day 2013 — a journey of resilience, courage, and love.
For over a decade, we’ve had the unwavering support of Sonya, Vickie’s incredible Neuro PT at CPMC Davies. We are their longest-standing patient, and Sonya and her team have been a constant source of strength through every challenge. Her care, patience, and motivation helped push Vickie beyond limits we never imagined. In those early years, we attended PT twice a week — over 100 sessions a year — and we truly couldn’t have done it without her.
Beyond being a brilliant physical therapist, Sonya is also an 8th Degree Black Belt, Executive Director, and Head Instructor in martial arts based in Oakland. Thank you, Sonya, for everything. We love you!
This past year has also brought profound sorrow. In November 2025, Vickie’s beloved brother-in-law, Paul Savage, moved in with us in San Francisco after being diagnosed with Interstitial Lung Disease at UCSF. We gave everything to caregiving and tried to find him a new lung. Sadly, Paul passed away on June 28th, 2025. He was our hero, best friend, and a bright light in our lives. He would come every few months from San Diego and encouraged all of us. We deeply miss him!
We are forever grateful to Jason, whose boundless love and devotion to Mama Vickie is a daily gift. His heart of gold and sense of humor lift her up and keep her laughing.
We’d also like to thank:
* San Francisco State’s Speech Therapy Program, for their talented students who helped Vickie find her voice again — Wahooooo!
* Lily, Vickie’s past Occupational Therapist, whose determination and humor brought Vickie so far.
* Dr. Josephson at UCSF Neurology, for your continual encouragement and expert care.
* Dr. Strelkoff, for your 8 years of dedicated support in Vickie’s recovery journey.
* Bianca, Abby, and Carla, Vickie’s former caregivers — thank you for your tireless compassion and love. We are forever grateful.
* And to Napoleon III, Vickie’s devoted service dog and biggest fan — you’re the most handsome companion in San Francisco! Thank you Canine Companions for Independence for bringing him into our lives.
This walk is not just about Vickie’s survival — it’s about the power of love, community, and never giving up.
LOVE CONQUERS ❤️
ALOHA!
Victorious Vickie, Jason, Angela, Napoleon III (Service Dog), Ava, and Lucas
Vickie started walking in 2019 (after 6+ years in a wheelchair) and talking (after 3.7 years of being
https://youtu.be/s2a8BCgoT04
Vickie walks SOLO for the first time - no cane needed!
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8BG9adgAnfA
Victorious Vickie and Napoleon III - DogFest
https://secure.qgiv.com/event/2026dogfestbayarea/team/1022204
VICKIE TALKS FOR THE FIRST TIME
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dt5YROab1M
No one should have to navigate brain aneurysm, AVM, or stroke alone.
That's why our team is participating in TAAFWalk 2026.
Together, we're helping The Aneurysm and AVM Foundation provide education, support, community, and hope for those affected by brain aneurysm, AVM, and hemorrhagic stroke. Every step we take and every dollar we raise helps ensure that no one has to face this journey alone.
Want to help us keep the light burning?
Please support our team with a donation today. Every gift, no matter the size, helps make a meaningful difference.
Walk with us. Give with us. Be part of the light.