Neuroanatomist Jill Bolte Taylor describes the process by which she experienced a stroke. Her expertise in neurology allowed her to have unique insight into the event.  It all began with something akin to an "ice cream headache."  In the next few minutes, she experienced multiple levels of consciousness and realized she was having a stroke.  Her 8 year journey from the stroke to recovery is documented in her book "My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey." This video is her fascinating TED brief lecture on her journey.