Stroke survivor Maria Odenkirk to participate in Willis Tower climb with support from actor brother

CHICAGO – Climbing the Willis Tower is no easy feat, but next week a ChicagoAn area woman who suffered a stroke six years ago plans to take on the challenge to raise money and awareness for stroke survivors.

Maria Odenkirk, who was 50 years old when she suffered a brain hemorrhage in 2018, will join her brother, actor and writer Bob Odenkirk, in the 16th annual Skyrise Chicago Climb of the Willis Tower to benefit Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago.

“I started recovering from surviving a brain hemorrhage and that left me partially paralyzed on my left side, from my head to my toe, right down the middle,” Maria said.

Maria’s older brother, actor and comedy writer Bob Odenkirk, helped her through her recovery journey and now helps her help others.

“My sister had a stroke. It took her a long time to recover, but because of the type of stroke she had and the severity of it, she recovered much better than most people,” Bob said.

The climb will test Maria’s resilience as she strives to complete the tower’s top 20 flights with her “Mobility Queen” team.

Meanwhile, Bob, who will be filming in Winnipeg, plans to support her virtually by climbing 25 flights four times at his apartment building.

“My apartment building is 25 stories high. So I walk up the stairs four times. I take the elevator down… and get a massage when it’s over,” Bob said.

Shirley Ryan Ability Lab has played a major role in Maria’s recovery and is now helping them by testing new aids and equipment for people with mobility problems.

“They have everything in one place: the physicians, the clinicians, the therapists. And also the researchers in one location, which is very unique,” Maria said.

Since her stroke, Maria has participated in seven clinical trials with Shirley Ryan, all of which have helped her regain some mobility, Bob noted.

For those interested in supporting Maria’s Skyrise Climb, donations can be made at her website.