17/06/2025
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!
