A Note from Maura
When one is initially introduced to the “rehab therapies”, they are identified as PT, OT, ST. (Of course we know there are many other health and wellness specialties that assist in stroke/brain injury recovery). Other than the possibility that someone in their family experienced a knee or shoulder injury, a broken hip or the like, the knowledge of these therapy disciplines and how they interconnect is often a mystery. Some will oversimplify the role noting that PT works on the lower extremities, OT works on uppers and self care tasks and the speech therapist helps with swallowing and speech. In actuality, the assessment and programming of each of these therapies is based on solid anatomy and physiology knowledge, an understanding of movement and the reliance on the amazing habilitation and rehabilitation powers of neuroplasticity.
There is, as you can tell, a kindred respect and interdisciplinary compliment between the therapies that come together to help guide an individual through the rehabilitation journey. So, naturally, when I had the honor of meeting Tony Barger after his stroke this year, I appreciated his perspective now being on the other side of the hospital bed. As you will hear, Tony is an Occupational Therapist and an individual whose career allows him assist in decisions about rehabilitation benefits for individuals walking this path. I could instantly hear how his processing of this health event had given him new focus and a sense that he could impact the field in a different way based on his experience.
The Group Leaders and myself felt inspired by the passion in Tony’s voice, but it has been watching the impact of his understanding on the other TAP clients that has been truly remarkable. Tony’s leadership through gentle, empathetic listening is only outdone by this encouraging direction in conversation and connection. I have a feeling that Tony’s stroke and subsequent experience with aphasia will result in a role at TAP that will guide, comfort and motivate for years to come.
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Tony Barger
It has been a blessing to discover the Triangle Aphasia Project. From the incredible Speech-Language Pathologists and SLP students facilitating the groups to the survivors and their caregivers who offer ongoing messages of support and encouragement, everything that TAP stands for has been a “breath of fresh air” during my own stroke recovery. I’m thrilled to have found TAP and know you will feel that way too!
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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