Speak Up! is a support group for adults age 55 and under to find connection and support during the aphasia recovery journey.. The group is facilitated by a Speech-Language Pathologist.. There is no charge for attending this group but donations to cover costs are welcome.
PURPOSE OF THE GROUP FOR THE PARTICIPANTS:
- to provide connection and support; to know that you are not alone in this journey with aphasia
- to develop friendships within the group, perhaps to extend outside of the group environment
- to learn from others how to best cope with issues related to aphasia
- to gain confidence in communication and/or life participation
- to feel accepted as yourself; to find this place to belong
- to talk about issues that are typical for this age group: parenting, handling responsibilities in a different way, dealing with people who treat me differently because of aphasia, handling the emotions of aphasia, volunteering/working/finding new purpose
- to provide opportunities for social activities and outings/events as a group
- to learn more about aphasia, resources, related education
WHEN DOES THE GROUP MEET? First Wednesday of the month
WHAT TIME? 1:00-2:30
WHERE DOES THE GROUP MEET? The group alternates between virtual Zoom meetings and in-person meetings (typically at a coffee shop or restaurant). All interested and registered participants will receive meeting details for the upcoming meeting from the group facilitator, Jessica Wald. To register or learn more information, please contact MnCAN at contact@mncan.org or 612-524-8802.
There is no fee to participate in this group.
Speech-Language Pathologist Group Facilitator: Jessica Wald
I have been a Speech Language Pathologist for 20 years!
I am the MnCAN Co-Executive Director of Advancement and Communications. I also work for Allina Health and have worked at United Hospital for 15 years. I now work at Mercy, Unity and United Hospitals.
Please feel free to contact me at with any ideas for our group, things that have worked well, things that haven’t worked as well- we can make this whatever you want it to be!