ARGYLE — While at work for Colony Brands in Monroe on July 26, 2018, Debbie Harder began to feel lightheaded. Her coworkers didn’t hesitate to have her taken to the local emergency room, where it was quickly determined she had a severe brain aneurysm at the age of 53.
Harder was taken by Med-flight to UW-Madison Hospital, where her doctor, Mustafa Baskaya, a world-renowned brain surgeon, described her case as a miracle.
“It’s been a slow process with healing,” said Brandon Harder, Debbie’s son. “She’s come a long way.”
Harder said she doesn’t consider herself a miracle. In more than a year, she’s had to relearn how to talk, walk and regain her memories. Although she can mostly function on her own, Harder continues to improve on her short-term memories as well more strenuous activities with physical therapy.
She’s currently living at Willowick Assisted Living in Janesville, where she is frequently visited by her sons, Brad and Brandon, and her daughter-in-law, Tara.
Friends and family organized a benefit for Harder at The Monroe Roller Den on Aug. 10. Brandon Harder said nearly 200 people came to show their support for his mother. There to say hello to everyone was Debbie herself.
Brandon said Debbie and her family have received tremendous support from the community.
“Everyone’s been reaching out and asking what they can do to help,” he said.
Tara Harder said watching Debbie’s progress over the last year has been amazing.
“We keep pushing her every part of the way,” Tara said. “It’s kind of like watching someone grow up all over again. This has made it all come closer together. I’m glad this is a family I’ve joined.”
Debbie Harder continues to work on her mobility and knows most of the names of the residents at her assisted living facility. Prior to the aneurysm, Harder loved to bowl and hopes eventually she regains enough strength to do it again.
She said what she’s most anxious for is to put her toes in the sand again. Even though her doctor and family have been pleased with her progress, Harder said sometimes it’s difficult because it feels like she’s moving backwards.
But she doesn’t let herself get too down when she’s having a hard time.
“Live life to the fullest every day,” Harder said.
