I had a stroke at 29 and went back to work weeks later. It taught me how to lead through a crisis — and to give grace to myself and my colleagues

Kari Cobham learned how to be a better leader after a health crisis early in her career.

Courtesy of Kari Cobham

• A stroke at 29 changed Kari Cobham's approach to work, leadership, and recovery.
• Cobham learned to value empathy, trust, and balance after returning to demanding jobs.
• Her experience now shapes her how she leads others, and she continues to give herself grace.

A stroke at just 29 years old wasn't in my career plan.

They can happen at any age...