Patty cohen

As a lifelong runner and athlete, Patty always took pride in staying active and strong. In February 2020, she ran the Disney Half Marathon—never realizing that race would ultimately save her life. The event revealed a hidden heart condition that had shown no symptoms before. Just weeks later, she underwent minimally invasive heart surgery, expecting to be back running within weeks.

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Instead, unexpected complications led to a brain embolism and two massive strokes. Overnight, Patty found herself paralyzed, unable to speak, and fighting for her life.

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With the world shut down due to COVID, she faced those first frightening weeks alone in the hospital. When she finally came home, her husband, family, and friends became her lifeline—caring for her, encouraging her, and standing by her side as she started intense therapy to  relearn how to learn the basics, and walk and talk.

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Her journey eventually led her to The Nirvana Project, where she rediscovered her purpose and strength. Competing as an adaptive athlete in the Miami Half Marathon and other events, Patty says, “Nirvana gave me back joy, purpose, and a sense of community.”

A retired educator with over 30 years of service, Patty now proudly serves on the Nirvana Project Board. What she once thought she had lost—her passion for racing—she has found again. It just looks a little different these days: rolling instead of running.

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Together, we can prove that every finish line is possible. #PattyStrong