Our long-running Aphasia Threads series was the inspiration for this simple project bringing together people with aphasia, caregivers, and professionals around a question: Why are you a part of the aphasia community, and what do you get out of connecting with others through the NAA?

 

Each post weaves together all three viewpoints with a bonus contribution from board members for Aphasia Awareness Month. Celebrate our community and share your own answer to take part in this ongoing series.

Question: Why are you a part of the aphasia community, and what do you get out of connecting with others through the NAA?

I am a person with aphasia

I have lived with aphasia for over 17 years. I find the many NAA programs to be helpful to me. NAA-sponsored bookclubs, group discussion calls, and calls with experts have allowed me to develop friendships with other people with aphasia. NAA activities have given me hope and support to live an active life. —Barbara K.

I am a caregiver

39-year-old son with aphasia from a TBI. Hearing others’ experiences give us strategies to help him and diminishes the isolation we feel. No one else understands his and our daily challenges. —Debbie

I am a professional who works with people who have aphasia

NAA is the one of leading associations in aphasia. —Myat

I am an NAA board member

I connected with the NAA over 20 years ago. I have worked clinically with the community of families living with aphasia for most of my career, and being able to translate this experience to a national level was intriguing. I am so satisfied that I made that decision and have continued to be active for so long. I am passionate about the injustices of living with aphasia, and I am grateful for the opportunity to help guide families through this journey. —Darlene Williamson, President, NAA