As we continue celebrating our 10th anniversary of MnCAN, January marks the anniversary of MnCAN's start with our conversation groups. We have grown from seven groups in 2014 to 21 groups in 2024. What has caused these groups to continue expanding and growing?  Here's a continuation of our interview with former executive director Julia Halvorson, who shared her memorable moments of these groups and what they mean to individuals living with aphasia...

"Anytime I got a call, text or email about the difference that MnCAN was making to a person or family, group facilitator or volunteer was a most memorable moment for me. It was fun to see friendships develop from the groups, extending outside of the group setting. How wonderful to see the support, humor, and encouragement those friends shared. "We're friends because of MnCAN." and "I found my people."

A few favorite moments:

- Group cheers and applause after a participant with severe apraxia nailed a much-
practiced wedding toast.
- Group members accompanying a fellow member to McDonalds as he ordered his first hamburger and fries since aphasia.
- A newly diagnosed participant with aphasia, whose goal was to regain public speaking skills, giving a speech months later at a MnCAN fundraiser.
- The sound of relief and hope from a newly diagnosed person with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) when told we would develop a program to help them."

MnCAN looks forward to capturing many more memorable moments in 2024.

JOIN US for a fun opportunity for MnCAN participants and care partners!  

- Free Mosaic On A Stick art class for MnCAN participants! 

- Care Partners attend for discounted rate of $40

- Light snacks and beverages provided

- Fun opportunity to socialize with MnCAN friends!

- MnCAN Staff member will be attending as well

See details below.  Sign up soon, as spots are filling fast.

Aphasia is a language disorder affecting 4 primary areas to varying degrees:

• talking
• writing
• understanding
• reading 

Aphasia DOES NOT affect intellect. 

What year did you join MnCAN?

I joined 1.5 years after my stroke in 2015.  A small group to start but has grown ever since.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Hunting, fishing and softball. 

What do you enjoy most about MnCAN?

Making friends and being with people who all have the same problem or difficulty.  We have people in so many areas...teaching, politics, marketing, finance...different areas, different ways.  It's fun to connect. 

What do you want people to know about aphasia?

(We are) trying to talk more and more.  Take time in talking to people with aphasia.  Don't cut them off.  

MnCAN Program Updates

 Attention!  We still have openings in our Gavel Club and PPA Staying Connected Programs.

The Virtual Confident Communicators Gavel Club (like Toastmasters) has 2 spots still available - email angie@mncan.org if you are interested. This structured group is a great place to practice reading a script, gaining confidence with impromptu questions and preparing a speech to present to the group.

The Staying Connected PPA Education Program has openings for our spring session, which begins February 22. This is an 8 week education program held online for persons with PPA and a care partner. We focus on education, resources and support. Check out more about this program and registration details here.

Feedback Opportunity

Attention current MnCAN participants.  Angie and Jessica, Co-Executive Directors, would love your response to a SHORT survey regarding your MnCAN experience. You can complete the survey at this link:

Click Here To Complete Survey

To make a one-time or recurring donation, click here:

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