Help Us Reclaim Our Words

We have Aphasia. Aphasia is a disability that results in a loss of language and a loss of words.

Aphasia is a hidden disability; it is not immediately obvious. Few people know about it or understand what it means.

Around 6-7 people develop Aphasia every day in New Zealand (NZ). Approximately 29,000 people in NZ are currently living with Aphasia as a result of a stroke. Even more people develop Aphasia in NZ as a result of head injury and brain tumour. People with aphasia may find it hard to talk, write, read, and understand what's being said.

People who suffer from Aphasia receive very limited funded support from the public health system during stroke recovery.

We are members of the CBR 'More Than Words' Gavel Club for People with Aphasia (GC). This is one of the few community groups supporting people with aphasia. It is an innovative, non-profit communication therapy programme. This group has given us a place to connect with others who live with aphasia. We have been given a way to re-join conversations and reconnect with our community after a major life event such as a stroke. It has greatly improved our confidence, communication skills, and overall quality of life.

- "Gavel Club was the best thing that has happened to me since my stroke" - GC Member

We are participating in an Aphasia Talk-a-Thon fundraiser for the GC for two days (June and July). We will join together to reclaim our words by engaging in two hours of talking activities.