At 6 years post-stroke, Mike discusses how his wife, Pam, tried repeatedly to get treatment for Broca’s aphasia in the UK. She was always told “There’s nothing more we can do for you”. Despite visible improvements her doctors saw, she was repeatedly signed off by therapists who claimed they could do nothing more for her, causing significant frustration.
This led Pam to search for other options, ending in intensive aphasia treatment at The Aphasia Center in St. Petersburg, FL. She wished to return to her love of acting, being able to read cue cards or memorize her lines.
Advice for Caregivers: Mike advises caregivers to have immense patience, listen, avoid interrupting, take time explaining things, use hand gestures or photo cards, and clarify the person’s response to make sure you understand.
Mike emphasizes the importance of not giving up, even with small improvements. He suggests listening to and singing along with music, and using subtitles while watching TV, as these methods have helped Pam.