Keith McNally reveals life struggles after stroke

In 2016, British-born restaurateur Keith McNally suffered a severe stroke that drastically altered his life. The stroke left him with limited mobility, impacting his right arm and leg, and he began experiencing aphasia, which severely affected his speech. This debilitating condition prevented him from visiting his restaurants for a year, causing him further emotional distress and embarrassment. In the midst of his struggle, McNally attempted suicide in 2018, a defining moment that highlighted his mental health challenges following the stroke. Despite the hardships, McNally found a way to express himself and connect with others through social media, viewing it as a means of overcoming his embarrassment. He began sharing his experiences, reflecting on both the physical disabilities and emotional turmoil he faced post-stroke. His candidness was cathartic, bringing attention to his personal journey and the perceptions others had of him. As he emerged from his struggles, he wrote a memoir, "I Regret Almost Everything," diving deeply into topics of regret, vulnerability, and his lifetime achievements as a restaurateur. As a prominent figure in the New York City dining scene, known for establishing popular venues like The Odeon, Balthazar, and Pastis, McNally’s story resonates with many. He reflects on his past, the challenges of being a father, and the influence of his upbringing, which lacked books and images. This reflection brings a more profound understanding of how these elements shaped his life choices, both personally and professionally. In the book and in interviews, McNally emphasizes that vulnerability is essential for honesty in storytelling. He believes that true memoir writing often involves exposing one's flaws and failures, something he embraces as a necessary part of his narrative. His journey of recovery and self-acceptance serves as an inspiration for many facing similar challenges, celebrating resilience in the face of life-altering events.