Hi! I was 31 at the time of my MVD (1/06) and my surgeon did say that stroke was a complication. I had so many complications and at one point they did an MRI to rule out a mini stroke--I couldn't really use the right side of my body much. I didn't have a stroke, but there was damage to my brain. It seems like they dropped me if you ask me!
Anyways, without getting into it, I had rehab for over 8 months, a second surgery, a staff infection that almost killed me, occipital nueralgia, and menegitis. I just started back at work two months ago, and am still only doing part time. I am still having right-sided issues as well. To say this MVD ruined me would be an understatement. To add insult to injury, the TN is back in full mode.
I am so sorry that your mom is going thru this. Just be there for her, and get second, third, and fourth opinions if you have to. Hopefully she will pull thru and start getting stronger each day.
Let me know if I can be of any help.
Stefanie