MINNEAPOLIS – Janet Stotko loved baking buttery kolach breads and sweet carrot cake for her friends and family.
But since she was struck from behind by an electric bicycle, or e-bike, while walking on a sidewalk in her Hastings neighborhood over a year ago, she can no longer taste the flaky crunchy crusts of her pastries or swaths of sweet frosting spread on top. As she cooks, Stotko needs another person to taste the recipe.
“A traumatic brain injury is an invisible injury that requires a lifelong medical journey that requires ongoing care,” Stotko, 60, said. “My nerves were severed so I will never smell or taste again, ever. It’s hard to wrap your head around.”…