- April 25, 2024
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Flagler County Schools Superintendent Janet Valentine, who suffered a stroke last Wednesday, was moved out of the hospital and into a rehabilitation facility on Sunday. Her speech is impaired, but she is making daily progress, according to School Board member Andy Dance.
“Come Dec. 3, at the next board meeting, we’ll have some more news,” he said.
With teachers and students on vacation for Thanksgiving, not much is happening at the schools, so there is less stress on administration, Dance said. Assistant Superintendent Jacob Oliva will make any necessary decisions in her absence. Valentine is scheduled to retire at the end of the school year.
“I’ve never experienced somebody with the effects of a stroke like that and not being able to communicate,” Dance said. “It’s sad to see somebody go through that process.”
He added that Valentine’s daughter is visiting from South Carolina.
The following letter was sent to the board by Communications Manager Sabrina Crosby and later posted by board member Colleen Conklin on her Facebook page:
Dear School Board Members,
I wanted to give you an update on Janet. Yesterday, I delivered a care package from the office, along with many cards and well wishes from GSB. Her daughter Anna, who lives in South Carolina and is in the medical field, was there with her. She is an excellent caregiver to Janet.
The speech therapist happened to come in while I was there. She did an evaluation with Janet and shared with us that Janet's stroke has affected her left side and the part of the brain that affects language. She said Janet is responding much better in just 2 days since she had seen her in ER and that she would be "talking before she knew it." She also shared that as a result of the stroke, Janet has "Aphasia." I checked the National Stroke Association website which states:
"Aphasia is a disorder of communication that impairs a person’s ability to use and comprehend language. Aphasia is a symptom of brain damage and affects approximately one million Americans. Stroke is the leading cause of aphasia. One in four stroke survivors experience some form of language impairment after a stroke."
The next steps for Janet are rehabilitation which will include speech, physical, and occupational therapy. They are hoping she will be moved this weekend so therapy can begin immediately.
As you can imagine, having visitors beyond family and a few close friends is difficult at this time for Janet and the family. With our prayers, cards of encouragement, and Janet's positive attitude and inner strength, she'll be back with us soon.
We will keep you posted on her progress and when visitation would be best.
