Gina was stopped cold when she had a stroke a little over a year ago. She was a nurse specializing in IV/PICC line placement, a new empty nester, and an avid outdoor enthusiast.

The stroke caused cycles of debilitating pain, limited function in her right hand, and significant difficulty expressing her thoughts through speech – aphasia.  Suddenly, Gina could no longer order a coffee, send a quick text message, or share her professional expertise with other doctors and nurses – a favorite part of her job.

Like so many others who receive an aphasia diagnosis, in an instant Gina lost not only her ability to communicate, but the career she loved and the future she imagined.

 She gradually improved, but word-finding remained frustrating, and her speech sounded robotic.  As the one-year anniversary of her stroke approached, Gina felt embarrassed and angry.

But Gina found a community who understood and supported her through MnCAN’s Speak Up! Young Adult Aphasia Support Group and the Confident Communicators Gavel Club.  When she first found MnCAN, she thought,

“I am a little scared for entering the group. I am not sure I am ready.  It is daunting for sure.

But after one session, oh man, my people.”

 “I love the candor and friendship. I used to have a position with my job to train nurses and doctors in my area of expertise.  I love spreading the passion and hopefully I am able to return to public speaking and not having the anxiety. I hope to have more confidence in speaking.”