We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When I started PostStroke Stitchin, I found myself in a new life, with a new normal trying to adjust to yet another curveball thrown at me and now I was overwhelmed with freshly made crocheted goods from rehabilitation therapy. It was suggested to me to take my wares to a craft show and I was instantly “hooked” (pun intended)! I had loads of fun at the craft show and I started looking into what I needed to do to make it into a real thing! Ultimately, my desire to get back on both feet after suffering a series of strokes at a young age and take care of my two young boys made me want to turn a life long hobby into a business!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Hearing “no” has never been easy for this only daughter, however “No” hurts differently when it’s coming from a medical professional and you’re asking whether the entire left side of your body will regain sensation. Although, I had a great initial prognosis for my left leg, I struggled to regain feeling and sensations from nerves in my left arm. Physical therapy wasn’t working and I was starting to feel defeated. When I learned how to crochet, I was 6 or 7 so very young and my mom did not teach me traditionally or with technical terms by any means mind you. After many years of only being able to make a Wonky shaped square for blankets, which both of my sons proudly carried for many years, I wanted to make hats but didn’t know how to read patterns or anything! So off I went teaching myself eventually through hard work and perseverance to read a pattern. I never expected to one day be crocheting for profit or with a legitimate career out of this long forgotten hobby but with health challenges and trying everything to regain nerve feeling I found what I needed in crochet. I’ve surprised doctors with my recovery and I’m able to do things most never expect after the health challenges I found myself up against. I’ve learned that standing up to fear can bring beautiful outcomes.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am definitely a true Colorado Girl straight through and through! I’m happiest outside enjoying the elements so obviously a guided or not fly fishing day trip in our award winning rivers is top of the list! Followed by some eats and treats in one of our bustling mini city neighborhoods! You cannot miss out on a trip to the ever so fun Meow Wolf in downtown Denver and spend the day getting turned around and having the time of your life with the interactive creativity! Taking in the wild sights at the Denver Zoo, or I even like to venture a little further and take a trip to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs is always a great way to spend the day with the bestie! My favorite exhibit is the penguins and of course it’s always fun to get the inspiration flowing for crochet plushies after a day at the zoo! With so many trails and outdoor recreation areas its easy to pick an easy hike or outside adventure! In all trips from traveling besties, no vacation is complete without taking a drive to Estes Park and seeing the Elk, The Stanley Hotel or getting your delicious lunch from my favorite Penelope’s Burgers!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe my mom a giant “Thank You” for taking the time to teach me how to crochet at such a young age and encouraging me to continue making even when I could only make a wonky square. I’d also like to appreciate my local Community group…The Longmont Community Crochet Guild for always cheering me on and showing me love and support at various craft shows and events. This club found me when I needed it the most and I could not imagine not having my monthly crochet get togethers to be in my happy place! I’d also like to specially appreciate each and every person who has supported my journey along the way, it’s because of you I keep finding joy in my granny craft!

Website: www.poststrokestitchin.com

Instagram: @poststrokestitchin

Facebook: @poststrokestitchin

Image Credits
Matt Maenpaa-Foolish Endeavors Photography Jade Hunter- Jade Hunter Photography

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