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 (and now, a little beyond). 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 connect so I can have a support group, and it gives me ideas to help in my community. — Brooke

I am a caregiver

Information, support, and friendship. — Holly

I am a professional who works with people who have aphasia

NAA is a great resource for our staff and program participants with aphasia and PPA, providing additional opportunities to connect and learn. — Julia H., Executive Director of MnCAN

I am an NAA board member

I have been part of the NAA community for as long as it has existed – 35 years. As a speech/language pathologist and researcher who specializes in aphasia, I have found that the NAA is the ONLY organization that connects people with aphasia, their families and carers, clinicians, and researchers together through information, resources, and events. One of the most important things we can do as speech/language pathologists is connect people with aphasia and their families to the information they need, and the NAA is THE ONE place in North America where people can find information. — Jackie, professor at NSU