Meet Ali Mehreganfar | Motivational Speaker & Stroke Survivor Influencer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ali Mehreganfar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ali, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
The habits that helped me succeed are a mix of determination, family support, and staying positive. Moving from Iran to the U.S. was like landing on another planet, but my family’s unwavering support made all the difference. They were my rock, always encouraging me to keep going.

Staying positive and motivated was key, especially after my accident and strokes. Regular exercise, particularly hitting the gym and practicing at home, was crucial. It not only helped me physically but also gave me a routine and a sense of progress.

Dedication to learning was another big factor. My rehab classes and continuous studying played a huge role in my recovery and overall success. Setting clear goals and planning how to achieve them kept me focused and driven. Whether it was excelling in school or working towards my dream of becoming a dentist, having a roadmap was essential.

In short, a mix of determination, strong family support, positivity, regular exercise, continuous learning, and goal-setting has been my recipe for success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work as a motivational speaker and stroke survivor influencer is deeply rooted in my personal journey. What sets me apart is my firsthand experience with overcoming significant challenges after a traumatic brain injury and multiple strokes. I still live with aphasia and other disabilities, but I strive every day to improve, little by little. My goal is to inspire and empower others facing similar battles.

One of my proudest achievements is co-authoring the book “Stroke 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Recovery and Empowerment” with my brother. This book is a major highlight, but it’s just the beginning. I have big plans to do much more for the stroke survivor community, offering hope, resources, and a roadmap to recovery.

Getting to where I am today professionally was far from easy. The journey involved intense physical, emotional, and mental challenges. Regaining my speech and mobility required relentless effort and perseverance. I faced days when progress seemed impossible, but I never gave up. Instead, I focused on enjoying every second of my life and appreciating the small victories along the way.

The lessons I’ve learned through this process are invaluable. Resilience, determination, and the importance of a positive mindset have been crucial. I want the world to know that, no matter how dire the circumstances, you can always find a way to rise above them. Your potential is boundless. Stay focused on your aspirations and persistently pursue them.

My mission is to help other stroke survivors see that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. I aim to be a beacon of hope and strength, showing that life after a stroke can be fulfilling and full of potential. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to embrace their journeys and realize their dreams

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Favorite Spots in the City

If my best friend were visiting Atlanta, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable experience exploring some of my favorite spots. Here’s a little itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Exploring the Outdoors
We’d start the week with a visit to Chattahoochee Coffee Company by the Chattahoochee River. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while surrounded by beautiful nature. We’d spend some time walking along the river and practicing tai chi or meditation to start the day on a peaceful note.

Day 2: Parks and Recreation
Next, we’d head to Piedmont Park, a vibrant urban park perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or even some light exercise. The park’s serene environment and lush greenery make it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.

Day 3: Foodie Adventures
For lunch or dinner, we’d visit Kuroshio Sushi Bar and Grille, my favorite spot for sushi. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is always fresh and delicious. Another must-visit is Rumi’s Kitchen, which I consider one of the best Persian restaurants in Atlanta. The flavors are authentic, and the ambiance is warm and inviting.

Day 4: Sports and Entertainment
A visit to Truist Park to catch a Braves game would be on the agenda. The energy of the crowd and the thrill of the game make it a fantastic experience, even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan.

Day 5: Midtown and Downtown Exploration
We’d spend a day exploring Midtown and Downtown Atlanta, taking in the sights, sounds, and vibes of these bustling areas. There are plenty of shops, cafes, and interesting spots to check out.

Day 6: Bar Hopping and Nightlife
For a taste of Atlanta’s nightlife, we’d go bar hopping in Buckhead. It’s a lively area with a variety of bars and clubs, offering everything from laid-back lounges to vibrant dance floors.

Day 7: Nature and Adventure
We’d end the week with a boating trip at Lake Allatoona or Lake Lanier. Both lakes offer beautiful scenery and a range of water activities. Whether we’re fishing, boating, or just enjoying the view, it’s a great way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Georgia.

Throughout the week, we’d also take time to walk the Atlanta BeltLine, an exciting way to explore different parts of the city while enjoying art installations, parks, and eateries along the way. And for those who love nature, there are plenty of beautiful sites just outside the city to explore.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to several incredible people and groups who played a significant role in my journey. First and foremost, my family has been my rock, especially my brother, who not only helped me write “Stroke 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Recovery and Empowerment” but also motivated me to regain my confidence and keep pushing forward.

Additionally, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to my doctors and the amazing rehab crew who worked tirelessly to help me recover. Their expertise, encouragement, and unwavering support were crucial in my journey from being unable to speak or walk to where I am today.

Lastly, I want to recognize myself. Going through a traumatic brain injury and multiple strokes was incredibly challenging, but I never gave up. I realized that no one was going to save me; I had to save myself. My story is about falling down and getting back up, stronger each time. It’s about hard work, dedication, and never giving up on your dreams. Your only limitation is your imagination. Keep dreaming forward!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mystrokelife1/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alimehreganfar

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mystrokelife1

Image Credits
Rez Ast
IG: rezast.photo