6 years later ….

Note: today is the 6th “anniversary “ of the stroke I had which left me with communication challenges (aphasia, apraxia of speech and dysarthria). I have been writing about my journey in hope that what I’ve learned can help others either experiencing similar challenges or those people who are trying to understand their partner or friend who has these challenges but can’t express what they want. Even though this post will not be a finished project, I will upload it on May 12 to mark the date. Please return at a later date to reread it. Today is not the best word day. I am giving myself grace to accept that the words are not flowing.

May 12, 2019 to May 12, 2025…..

So much has happened. So many challenges and obstacles. So many important people have supported me. So many misunderstandings. So much work and progress. So much grace. So many joys and blessings. That is Life. My life is not unusual. Most people experience ups and downs. I did even before the stroke. Somehow XXX

As you can tell, the past 6 years have been a roller coaster and my life is better for it. I could say I’m thriving, but I’m not sure that is the best word. I have thought of saying “living my best life”. Aphasia makes me second guess word usage.

I can say I’m much more calm and have the serenity I hoped for this past year. I’m enjoying life more than I thought I would. And letting things go a lot more than I thought I would. I’m even comfortable with my voice. Not because it’s my ‘old” voice, but because I know I can use it for good,

I learned a lot. And I remembered even more. I kept coming back to my experiences as a teacher throughout this period to make sense of xxx,

Just read an article in the NYT about adult education and reading. Reminded me that what I used and learned as an educator helped me during recovery. And perhaps it can help others.

Reading (phonics versus whole language) building blocks of comprehension

Writing (grammar and organization of an essay)

Accommodations (disability, granddaughter accepting differences)

Self esteem (rebuilding course)

Self advocacy and advocacy (importance of both but especially self)

Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/svetlanabar-8558152/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=5270439">Svetlana</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=image&utm_content=5270439">Pixabay</a>