Walt Whitman suffered from a paralytic stroke in early 1873, which had a significant impact on his health and mobility. This stroke left him partially paralyzed and unable to continue living independently. As a result, he was compelled to move from Washington, where he had been residing, to the home of his brother, George Washington Whitman, in Camden, New Jersey.
The stroke that Whitman experienced was a paralytic one, indicating that it caused paralysis or weakness in certain parts of his body. While the specific details of the stroke and its exact effects on Whitman are not widely documented, it is known that it severely limited his physical abilities and made it challenging for him to perform everyday tasks. This kind of stroke often results from a disruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to damage in the affected area and subsequent paralysis.
After the stroke, Whitman’s brother George, who was an engineer, kindly offered him a place to stay at 431 Stevens Street in Camden, New Jersey. This move was necessary because Whitman required assistance with his daily care and could no longer live independently. It is worth noting that this gesture from his brother demonstrates the importance of familial support during difficult times.
Whitman’s new living arrangement in Camden allowed him to have the necessary support and care he needed during his recovery. Being in the company of his brother and having access to medical assistance likely played a vital role in helping him adapt to his new circumstances.
While the stroke undoubtedly had a profound impact on Whitman’s life, it is important to remember that he continued to write and produce literary works even after the stroke. His indomitable spirit and resilience enabled him to persevere and continue his creative endeavors despite the physical challenges he faced.
Walt Whitman suffered from a paralytic stroke in early 1873, which left him partially paralyzed and necessitated a move to his brother’s home in Camden, New Jersey. This stroke had a significant impact on his health and mobility, but he was able to find support and continue his creative pursuits with the assistance of his brother and the medical care available to him.