Mrs Dixon, who's 63, has since recovered almost all movement and speech, but is still partially disabled.

She also could not return to her previous job as an emergency nurse at Blacktown Hospital.

''I was in San Francisco on holiday when I stroked out,'' she said.

''I felt extremely tired and could say only one word.''

A stroke occurs when blood flows to parts of the brain are blocked or interrupted, causing mental or physical disabilities.

Mrs Dixon fell ill in the US, but managed to skirt that country's expensive hospital system when her daughter arranged a quick return to Australia for her. She was in hospital here for three weeks and in rehabilitation for six.

Mrs Dixon's condition improved and today she can drive, shop and do her own cooking and housework.

''I'm very independent and I don't let the stroke affect my life,'' she said.

''But I have aphasia, which makes it difficult getting my words out. I was right-handed, but now I can print only with my left hand.''

Mrs Dixon said she wanted her story known to warn other people to avoid

strokes or to do something if they detect any symptoms.

She said she should have noticed the signs and seen her doctor.

Mrs Dixon is now a member of the Stroke Club and part of a stroke research program. For information, call (03)96701000 or visit www.strokefoundation .com.au.