Echo's story - WTAJ
May 29, 2026 — An Altoona farmer, wife and mother of three is being reminded of the many milestones she has reached in her recovery during American Stroke Month. Echo Yoder, 31, experienced a stroke caused by two blood clots and a small brainstem bleed in late 2025.
The stroke left her unable to speak, swallow or walk without assistance. After being a patient at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona, she has since returned home to her farm, Echo Springs Farm, and her life as a mother.
“I speculated fairly quickly that I was having a stroke,” Yoder told WTAJ Studio 814. “I had taken a lot of first aid classes, and they always mentioned the symptoms.”
Yoder recognized the warning signs using the B.E. F.A.S.T. acronym, which highlights sudden changes in balance, eyes (vision), facial drooping, arm weakness,speech,and the importance of calling 911 immediately. When she started having symptoms, she knew it was time to get help.
“The key is to identify this in a timely manner because time is of the essence,” said Dr. Hugh Newman, a physician at Encompass Health Altoona
Newman oversaw Yoder’s rehabilitation care. Although the road to recovery can often be difficult, Newman emphasized that Yoder’s attitude, determination and drive is what allowed her to make a strong recovery.
“She showed up here extremely determined,” Newman said. She is still getting therapy, but she has returned to work. It is impressive.”
To return to her daily life, Yoder had to relearn many basic tasks. As a mother of three young children, she was eager to be there for them again as soon as possible.
“I had to pretty much relearn everything, like how to walk,” Yoder said. “I had a feeding tube for 17 days. I actually joke that I learned how to walk and eat alongside my baby, who was also learning to walk and eat.”
Now back at home, Yoder continues her recovery while sharing her story to raise awareness about stroke symptoms and the importance of acting quickly.
“My goal is to make it where people don’t know I had a stroke unless they know me,” Yoder said.