A Note from Maura
All TAP clients begin their relationship with our organization with a brief consultation, currently on Zoom due to the pandemic. This initial meeting offers an opportunity to explain TAP services and programs, but more importantly the chance to get to know an individual whose life has been altered by the presence of aphasia. I exit every meeting with an understanding that without their having suffered a stroke, a brain injury or other neurological change, I would not be given this chance to know them. It often feels like a mixed blessing as I learn of their personal passions, work in the community and purpose in vocational and avocational pursuits. I hate that this is the path for me to know them, but I am changed by their impact on me and our program.
I remember having this feeling after meeting Dorothy and her family on our Zoom consultation. It was easy to imagine Dorothy in her role as a teacher, a mentor to so many. I felt excited for her to bring this energy to our groups, for her to achieve her goals by connecting, and yes, by teaching.
Today, you will read the story of a caring woman and an engaged family who searched for answers and found what is often the best kind of therapy…reading, listening and talking about something dear to one’s own heart. TAP’s Bible Study may be a venue for practice, but you will undoubtedly agree…it’s power is in it’s people. Thank you for sharing your story Dorothy and Carrie!
________________________________________________
Dorothy Belcher (as told by her daughter, Carrie Nichols)
April 2, 2021, this day changed my mother, Dorothy Belcher’s life in so many ways. She had just returned to home, after visiting my husband and I, in Durham, NC for a few weeks. At some point during the night, she suffered a stroke and the life that she had known changed drastically. As a result of the stroke, she has aphasia and has difficulty communicating.
Prior to the stroke, my Mom was very active in her hometown of Plymouth, NC. She served as the Assistant Superintendent of Sunday school, 4-H leader, Youth Leader and Sunday school teacher at her church. She also served as a secretary to a local Women’s ministry and volunteered weekly with the Lunch Box, a free lunch program for the community.
My mom was rushed to the hospital, where she spent several days. After her release, she began physical, occupational and speech therapies. While she worked through her therapies, my family and I began researching to find any additional information we could find on strokes, aphasia and support groups. During my first search session, the Triangle Aphasia Project rose to the top of my search results. I began exploring the website and was excited to find that it was a local group. During my mother’s first speech therapy session, her speech therapist enthusiastically recommended TAP and we immediately got involved.
We had been looking for a program to help Mom continue her study and love of God’s word. TAP bible study quickly became her favorite session. She looks forward to attending the Wednesday TAP session. She often spends time on Monday and Tuesday, studying and preparing for the Wednesday session. My family and I help her with her study, so we now have our own family bible study time as we discuss the scripture for the week.
Maura Silverman, Julia Canavan, and the entire TAP family have truly been a blessing to us. The continued speech therapy, the supportive environment for caregivers, the opportunity to learn more about aphasia and strategies to help Mom has been a God send!
My mother’s journey may be quite different now but God is still in control. I wholeheartedly believe that God placed TAP in my mother’s life to help strengthen her faith, strengthen her spirit and give her the support she needs to continue her life of service.
Thank you God and Thank you TAP!
_____________________________________________________
From the Home Office
12 Days of TAP provides you, our Triangle Aphasia Project Unlimited family, an opportunity to embrace the WHY of what we do. For 12 days, we share stories of those impacted by aphasia.
Aphasia can be a devastating impairment resulting in social isolation, depression and disengagement from the passions and purpose of an individual’s life. These stories demonstrate what happens when hope, determination, purpose and engagement are returned.
Our ability to provide accessible, affordable programming for individuals with aphasia and their families is a result of the generosity of our donors. Today, we ask that you continue supporting TAP by sharing these stories to build an understanding of life with aphasia and consider making a donation.
Thank you for your faith in our organization and for supporting the 12 Days of TAP!
Ways to Donate
- Text “tapholidays” to 50155
- Visit aphasiaproject.org to make a one-time donation
- Join our Ice Breaker Club to become a monthly donor
- Donate on our Facebook Fundraiser and share with your friends
- Print and clip the form below and mail a check
- Make a donation of stock; email us for more information