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In 2018, Annelies T. had a massive stroke, triggered by an injury to her neck that severed her carotid artery. Besides serious physical impairments, Annelies’ stroke also caused aphasia, a condition that can occur suddenly after a stroke or brain injury and impacts a person’s ability to speak, to understand language, and to read and write.
Before the stroke, the vibrant 26-year-old had been leading an active and fast-paced life in Atlanta. She traveled the world for work and pleasure, spoke French fluently, and loved trying new restaurants and visiting museums. For someone who thrived on connecting with others, suddenly being unable to communicate was devastating.
Since her stroke, Annelies has worked tirelessly to regain her speech and language skills. She completed several sessions of the month-long Intensive Comprehensive Aphasia Program at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, where she first learned about the hospital’s aphasia community groups.
“I’ve done the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab program three times now, and it really has improved my speech,” said Annelies. “But the community aspect — that’s what has been most rewarding for me.”
Annelies found comfort and connection in the aphasia community groups. The experience was so valuable that she moved to Chicago so she could participate in the weekly conversation groups, book club and film discussions in person.
Being able to help others has supported Annelies’ healing as well. She serves in the supported volunteer program, designed for individuals living with aphasia to volunteer at local organizations with the support of a speech-language pathologist. Annelies has prepared meals for the unhoused and food insecure, as well as cared for pets at an animal shelter.
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“Having this kind of support is really important. I can’t imagine what it would be like not having this program. It has really improved my life, and that of so many others. It helps confidence, self-esteem … just happiness,” she said.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s aphasia community groups, offered through the Center for Aphasia Research and Treatment, are supported thanks to the generosity of donors — and offer people with aphasia a lifeline for community and connection.
