These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.

Charlene, age 68: I had a mild stroke about 3 months ago. Fortunately, it wasn't too bad. With a lot of therapy, I am now able to walk and do many of the things I did before, although my right side is weak. I have a fair amount of narrowing in my carotid arteries, so I am going to have the surgery. I would hate to have another stroke and lose any more function.

David, age 70: I had a mini-stroke (my doctor called it a TIA) about 2 months ago. I had the test that looks at the carotid arteries when the major hospital sent a mobile unit to our area. I have about 65% narrowing in the artery. I could have the carotid surgery, but the closest major hospital is a couple hundred miles away, and I would rather not have surgery so far from home.

Roberto, age 71: I am fortunate to live in a major city that has very good hospitals. My doctor knows his complication rate from carotid surgery, and it is very low. Other than my narrow arteries, I am in good health and I've never had a stroke or even a mini-stroke. I think I stand to gain enough from having surgery to make up for the risks involved in it.

Golda, age 67: I have never had any symptoms of a stroke or a TIA, although my carotid arteries are about 70% narrowed. The risks of the surgery sound like they are almost as high as the benefit I would gain. Since I don't have any symptoms, I would rather not have surgery for now. Until something happens, I'll take my aspirin every day, eat right, exercise, and take my blood pressure medicine.