ESLA

24/07/2025

ESLA and celebrates Cleft &Craniofacial Awareness Month in July. We, as SLTs, promote support for early intervention, feeding and speech development. CleftAwareness

12/07/2025

European Speech and Language Association (ESLA ) and European Cleft Organization (European Cleft Organisation - ECO) celebrate Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month to promote awareness and early intervention for Cleft lip and palate.
Soon on our website! Follow ESLA 🤩

09/07/2025

Each year, thousands of children are born with cleft lip, cleft palate, or other craniofacial conditions. Raising awareness is the first step toward creating a more inclusive, informed, and supportive world.
Throughout July, we’re highlighting the vital role of surgeons, speech-language pathologists, and families in the journey of care and recovery.
Stay tuned for upcoming posts dedicated to each of these key voices.
Let’s spread awareness, celebrate resilience, and support every step of the way.

30/06/2025

Meet Ilayda, a passionate Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) working with people with aphasia. Ilayda shares heartfelt reflections from her work: the challenges her patients face, what needs to chang and the moments that make it all worthwhile.

"What is the most important message you want others to understand about aphasia and its impact on communication?"
- Communication should be considered one of the basic human needs, and individuals with aphasia also need to be part of social interactions. However, they often complain that when
they speak slowly or can't express themselves as well as they intend, listeners either don’t pay attention, pity them, or talk to them as if they were children. People with aphasia are not
stupid. This is not a problem of intelligence. They just need their communication partners to be patient, to give them time, and to accommodate their slower speech. I wish people could
understand this.

"What do you think is most needed to improve awareness, support, or services for people with aphasia in your country?"
I believe there is a greater need for proper referral of individuals with aphasia to rehabilitation services, in Turkiye. There aren’t enough speech and language therapists in hospitals, and some hospitals have none. People with aphasia and their families often don’t know where or how to access rehabilitation services. The awareness efforts we make on our own in university departments can only go so far. Especially in rural or remote areas,
individuals are sometimes left on their own. That’s why increasing the employment of speech and language therapists in hospitals would be an important step forward.

"What do you find most rewarding about working with people with aphasia?"
- I really enjoy the moments when they feel successful in their communication and speech and they share that feeling with me. Those are the times I feel the most professional
satisfaction. Because increases in scores on standardized language tests don’t mean much to the person with aphasia or their caregivers. But when they express that they feel
successful in communication and that their social participation has improved, those are the
moments I feel truly satisfied and fulfilled in my work.

29/06/2025

Dr Helen Kelly is a Speech and Language Therapist and Senior Lecturer in Speech and Hearing Sciences at University College Cork, Republic of Ireland. She sits on the Irish Heart Foundation Council of Stroke, and Board of Directors as Chair of the Research and Education sub-committee of Cork Stroke Support. Helen’s passion is post-stroke communication impairment, and she endeavours to include stroke survivors with aphasia through PPI and Codesign, reflecting her role on UCC’s PPI Ignite Advisory Panel. Helen established the Aphasia Home Café with her speech and language therapy students, an online conversation group, which is an informal supportive space for people with aphasia to meet for peer support and to practice their communication skills.
She shares her thoughts on working with stroke survivors with aphasia.

"What is the most important message you want others to understand about aphasia and its impact on communication?"

Aphasia is a communication difficulty affecting language, most commonly caused by Stroke. It can affect a person’s ability to understand what they read and hear and to express themselves when speaking and writing. It affects everyone differently, depending on the location and severity of the brain damage and so every person with aphasia can have different communication problems and abilities.

One of the most important messages is that Aphasia does not affect intelligence! People know what they want to say but can’t always find the words they want or put them into sentences. They are people with hopes and dreams, just like you and me, but have difficulty expressing themselves the way they used to before their stroke. Ask them what helps them communicate successfully and give them time to say what they want to say.

"What do you think is most needed to improve awareness, support, or services for people with aphasia in your country?"

Communication is a Human Right and is essential for our ability to participate in all parts of our daily lives. Although more than 1/3 of stroke survivors have aphasia, there is poor awareness in the general population and across health, utilities, public and commercial services in Ireland, and globally. I recently led an all-Ireland HEA funded research project (ENSPIRED) that focussed on communication access in North and South Ireland. This included stroke survivors with aphasia as Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) experts. The stroke survivors told us about the barriers they face living on the island of Ireland because of aphasia. They identified that a top priority resolution would be a country-wide education programme to educate public, private and healthcare organisations about aphasia and to provide advice on how to make these organisations more accessible for people with aphasia.

"What do you find most rewarding about working with people with aphasia?"
It has been such a privilege to work with people with aphasia as research participants, PPI experts and members of my Aphasia Home Café. I have learned so much from their lived experiences. Some of the most rewarding work involved collaborating with them as partners on various projects to raise awareness of aphasia, such as, co-authoring a book chapter ‘Embracing technology with aphasia’, co-creating a video for European Researchers’ Night - https://youtu.be/bGFZ6Yz7TgM?si=yF9g_vs4qb5484ou and our recently launched co-designed website to raise awareness of aphasia and the Aphasia Home Café - https://www.ucc.ie/en/aphasiacafe/

29/06/2025

As we mark Aphasia Awareness Month this June, the European Speech and Language Therapy Association is proud to highlight the experiences of people living with aphasia and to celebrate their resilience and achievements.

One such individual is Paul Flinter, who acquired aphasia following a stroke. Paul is a passionate advocate and community leader living with aphasia. He is raising awareness, building community, and inspiring hope for others living with aphasia. His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of support, inclusion, and understanding!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMKOuuEtf2k

24/06/2025

Meet Yago

Yago is a former high school teacher who experienced a stroke that resulted in aphasia — a condition that affects his ability to communicate. Since then, he’s been on a journey of recovery, resilience, and rediscovery. With the support of speech therapy, loved ones, and his own determination, Yago continues to adapt and find strength in each new day. This is his story:

We need to give language difficulties the same attention and respect as physical disabilities. Aphasia deserves understanding — not to be ignored or overlooked. Whether I’m speaking with healthcare staff, at the bank, or just chatting with a neighbor, conversations can be made more accessible if we’re willing to make small adjustments. Everyone has the right to be heard and understood.

The day before my stroke, I had never even heard of aphasia. Now, I live with it — and learn from it every day. My speech therapist has given me more than just tools; they’ve given me strategies, encouragement, and hope. Together, we’re working to rediscover and rebuild my way of communicating. We’re finding my new language.

Before my stroke, I was a high school teacher. I’ve always talked a lot — it’s how I taught, connected, and expressed myself. Communication, to me, means knowledge, learning, and relationships. That’s why losing language has been especially difficult. It’s hard not being able to talk easily with friends and family. That part hurts the most.

For me, the biggest source of strength is hope. Aphasia doesn’t disappear, but I’m learning how to live with it. Each new challenge gives me an opportunity to grow. Connecting with others who understand this journey makes a big difference. And above all, the support from my family and friends means everything. I’m not alone — and that keeps me going.

23/06/2025

Meet Friðrik, six months post-stroke, who is courageously navigating life with aphasia. In this honest and moving reflection, Friðrik shares what it’s like to lose — and slowly regain — the ability to communicate, and how speech and language therapy has been a lifeline in his recovery.
Alongside him is Linda, a speech-language therapist, who emphasizes the importance of preserving dignity in communication and raising national awareness about aphasia.

Their message is clear: aphasia changes how you speak — not who you are.

Friðrik:
What do you want people to understand about aphasia?
I wish more people knew what aphasia is — it’s incredibly difficult. In my case, I couldn’t even say “yes” or “no” at first. That alone was really hard. From the hospital to when I arrived at the rehabilitation unit, it was only then that I slowly started to speak again — first “yes” and “no,” and then more followed. But during my time in the hospital, nothing improved. That’s why it’s so important that people understand this condition exists. It can happen in an instant — one moment you’re fine, and the next, everything is just... gone. It’s shocking how suddenly it can change your life.

How has speech and language therapy helped you?
It truly saved me. Like I said, I couldn’t even say “yes” or “no” on my own — that progress only came with help. It’s been incredibly hard, maybe the hardest thing I’ve ever done, having to re-learn how to speak and read. It’s not something that just comes back naturally. You have to work at it, and it takes everything you have.

What has been the hardest part of living with aphasia?
Not being able to express yourself properly. That’s the most difficult part. You have things to say, but the words just aren’t there. I’ve found that helping kids with math has been useful — I have to explain my thinking to them, and that pushes me to find the words. It’s challenging, but it helps. Doing something you care about really makes a difference. But honestly, everyone at Grensás agrees — speech therapy is the hardest part of recovery. It takes so much effort.

What helps you stay strong and positive?
Being here at the rehabilitation center helps. I feel supported. The people here are skilled and caring — you can tell they really know what they’re doing. That gives you confidence and hope. You start to believe that something good will come from all the hard work. And everything I’ve regained, I owe to the people helping me here.

Linda:

What’s the most important thing people should understand about aphasia and communication?
Aphasia doesn’t affect intelligence. People with aphasia still deserve respect and dignity in every conversation. You can simplify your message without speaking down to someone. Give them time — let them use writing, drawing, gestures, or pointing. Never assume they have nothing to say. That’s like saying someone without a car has nowhere to go.

What do you think would most improve awareness or services for people with aphasia in your country?
Because the aphasia community here is small, many people affected struggle to advocate for themselves. That’s why it’s crucial for professionals like speech-language pathologists to speak up — to educate the public about what aphasia is (and what it isn’t). We also need to continue offering group activities that encourage communication and connection, like the ones provided by Heilaheill, a volunteer association supporting people with brain injuries, including aphasia.

People in rural areas also need better access to support. Online peer groups could help reach them. On a larger scale, a national awareness campaign — maybe an annual Aphasia Awareness Day — could make a big difference.

As technology advances, we must ensure that tools designed for this group are simple, accessible, and available in Icelandic.

What do you find most rewarding about working with people with aphasia?
The resilience I witness is deeply moving. Supporting someone as they slowly find their way back to communication — even just in part — is incredibly rewarding. The gratitude they show is humbling. I’ve learned that a smile, eye contact, or simple kindness can be the start of something powerful.

16/06/2025

Aphasia affects the ability to use language — but it does not change the person behind the words. This month, we’re sharing the voices of people impacted by aphasia to deepen understanding and promote compassion.

We spoke with Vera, who lives with aphasia, and Mirna, a speech and language therapist, about their personal and professional experiences. Here's what they had to say:

Vera, living with aphasia:

What do you want people to understand about aphasia?
“The initial encounter with the diagnosis often brings a deep sense of confusion and shock, as one comes to the realization that communication is no longer possible in the way it once was. This awareness is frequently accompanied by profound frustration, sadness, and even anger, as the ability to express thoughts, knowledge, and emotions verbally becomes limited. One of the most challenging aspects can be the change in how others interact with you, often leading to feelings of social isolation and reduced participation in everyday life in the months that follow.”

How has speech and language therapy helped you?
“In the first months after my diagnosis, it was my speech and language therapist who gave me the most support, guidance and comfort. Beyond the communication-focused therapy, she also made sure to involve my family and those closest to me, helping them understand what I was going through and how best to support me. That truly made a difference in my daily life.”

What has been the hardest part of living with aphasia?
“For me, the hardest part of living with aphasia was coming to terms with the diagnosis. It affected my ability to communicate, which in turn had a profound impact on my social life. Accepting this new reality was incredibly difficult, both emotionally and personally.”

What helps you stay strong and positive?
“What truly kept me going over time—what gave me strength, hope, and a sense of positivity—was the support I received through speech and language therapy. It helped me understand my symptoms more clearly, recognize my abilities, and discover new ways of communicating that I had never thought about before. Most importantly, it helped me accept and adjust to this new version of myself with greater compassion and confidence.”

Mirna, Speech and Language Therapist:
What is the most important message you want others to understand about aphasia?
“The most important message I would kindly ask others to understand is that aphasia affects the way a person communicates, but it does not change who they are. Individuals with aphasia continue to think clearly, feel deeply, and comprehend the world around them — they may simply experience difficulty in expressing their thoughts with words. What truly makes a meaningful difference is patience, compassion, and a sincere willingness to listen. I humbly ask that you do not overlook or dismiss them because of their silence — they are very much present and have so much to share.”

What needs to improve for people with aphasia?
“Enhancing public awareness and education about aphasia is of paramount importance, as many individuals—including healthcare professionals—still lack a comprehensive understanding of the condition. It is equally essential to ensure that support services are both accessible and continuous, alongside improved integration of speech and language therapy within the broader healthcare system. Furthermore, actively involving families in the rehabilitation process significantly contributes to more effective outcomes. Strengthening advocacy efforts to uphold the rights and address the needs of individuals living with aphasia remains a critical priority.”

What do you find most rewarding about your work?
“What I find most rewarding is witnessing the moment when an individual with aphasia regains their ability to communicate—whether through a word, a gesture, or a smile. It is profoundly moving to observe their confidence being restored, relationships strengthening, and individuals feeling acknowledged and understood once more. Being part of this journey is both an honor and a source of great inspiration.”

Let us work together to make aphasia visible, understood and supported!

11/06/2025

🗣️ June is Aphasia Awareness Month
Meet Kenneth — a person living with aphasia.

Kenneth’s story reminds us that communication is more than just words — it's about connection, patience, and strength:

My speech and language therapy has been crucial to where I am today. When I was
diagnosed with aphasia on October 3, 2018, I could barely say anything. I had to start all
over again – speaking, reading and writing. The speech and language therapy has helped me rebuild my
language step by step, and has also given me tools to cope with everyday life, even
when words are a challenge. It has not only been training – it has also given me hope and
direction.

The hardest thing has definitely been losing the ability to communicate freely – to be able
to say what I feel, think and feel. I have also experienced that people underestimate me
because my language is weak. It hurts, because inside I am still me. Loneliness and
frustration have been a big part of my life – especially in the beginning. It has required
patience and willpower to fight my way forward.
What keeps me going is my goal and my own plan: I refused to accept that my life would
stop after the blood clot. I have fought to get as much back as possible – both physically
and mentally. Training, fellowship with others in the same situation (like in the Aphasia
Community), and support from those around me have meant everything. And then I have
learned to celebrate the small progress. Every small victory counts. It gives me strength
and faith that I can still develop.

03/06/2025

June is International Aphasia Awareness Month — and this year, the European Speech and Language Therapy Association (ESLA) is placing a special spotlight on aphasia, a complex communication disorder that affects millions of people across Europe and beyond.

Aphasia can occur suddenly, often as a result of stroke or brain injury, disrupting a person’s ability to speak, understand, read, or write. Its impact can be profound — isolating individuals from their families, work, communities, and the everyday conversations that shape our lives. For many, the world becomes a quieter, more confusing place where self-expression is no longer taken for granted.

But communication can be rebuilt — and this is where Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) play a vital role.
Across Europe, SLTs work tirelessly with individuals affected by aphasia, using personalised, evidence-based therapies to help people regain their voices, reconnect with loved ones, and rebuild confidence and identity. SLTs also support families, educate communities, and advocate for communication rights — because communication is more than just speech; it’s connection, autonomy, and dignity.

This June, ESLA is dedicating its platforms to raise awareness about aphasia, highlight the experiences of people living with it, and champion the essential work of SLTs across Europe. Through stories, resources, and expert insight, we aim to deepen public understanding and help make aphasia visible.

Let’s stand together to support communication for all.
No one should face aphasia alone — and no voice should go unheard.

Aphasia Awareness monthJune is International Aphasia Awareness Month — and this year, the European Speech and Language Therapy Association (ESLA) is placing a special spotlight on aphasia, a complex communication disorder that affects millions of people across Europe and beyond. Aphasia can occu...

26/05/2025

This evening, ESLA convened its 2nd Board Meeting of the year, marking another important step in advancing our strategic objectives.

The Board engaged in thoughtful discussions around the establishment of task forces that will help drive key areas of development within the association.

We also reviewed the calls for participation in our expert groups, which will bring together professionals from across Europe to collaborate on critical themes in speech and language therapy.

Preparations for the SLT Day in 2026 were also a key point on the agenda, as we continue to plan initiatives that highlight and celebrate the value of our profession.
We are excited about the road ahead and remain committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and advocacy within the field