Hello MnCAN Community,

A new year brings a lot of excitement to all of us at Minnesota Connect Aphasia Now. We have 14 new participants joining our programs starting in January. That means 14 people living with aphasia will have an opportunity to connect with a community and find conversation and support. Our greatest joy is supporting people with aphasia so they can participate in life: family vacations, holiday gatherings, and every day activities.

We have a lot planned for 2025 and cannot wait to invite you to join in the months ahead. We anticipate new opportunities for social gatherings and connection. 

Suggestions for what you would like to see in our monthly newsletter? Email us at contact@mncan.org.

All of our best to you,

Angie Maier and Jessica Wald,

MnCAN Executive Directors

 

MnCAN recognized by The Power of 100 Twin Cities –

Women Who Care

 

The Twin Cities chapter of The Power of 100 Women Who Care, was established in September 2012. The organization is a community-minded group of women that gather four times each year to learn about local nonprofit organizations, each member then makes a $100 financial contribution to the selected nonprofit organization. Together this powerful group of women provide a substantial donation.

 

Sharon Braden, a long-time MnCAN volunteer and supporter, is a member of the Power of 100 Twin Cities and nominated our organization. In the fourth quarter of 2024, Sharon was presented with an opportunity to share a powerful, inspiring and meaningful message about the impact of MnCAN. As a result, MnCAN was selected to receive fourth quarter donations. The members believed in our ability to make a direct impact in the lives of people living with aphasia.

 

We are thrilled to report that through the generosity of many women, MnCAN has received over $15,000 from the Power of 100 Twin Cities Women Who Care PLUS a matching $5,000 donation from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation for a total of over $20,000. Thank you Sharon, the Power of 100 Twin Cities and The Schulze Foundation!  

 
  • Winter Payment Invoices have all been sent. Invoices can be paid electronically or by mailed check. Reach out if you want us to resend the invoice.
  • Winter Participant Survey: We are requesting all PARTICIPANTS complete a survey before and after the winter session. This really helps us to make any needed changes to our groups.
    • Survey can be found here:  Click Here To Complete Survey
  • Staying Connected Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) Education Class  begins February 7th.  This 8-week virtual class is for those with a PPA diagnosis and a care partner.  For more information, email us: contact@mncan.org. 
  • MnCAN Care Partner Support Group. Our free support group meets on the 2nd Thursday of the Month on Zoom from 6:30-7:30 pm.  Our next meeting is Thursday, February 13th. The group is co-facilitated by a mental health professional and a speech pathologist to provide education, support and resources.  Anyone who has a loved one with aphasia can attend, whether the person with aphasia is part of MnCAN programs or not.  For more information, email us: contact@mncan.org. 

 

MnCAN is currently seeking passionate and motivated persons to volunteer directly with our programs or behind the scenes support.

 

Current Volunteer Needs:

  • One volunteer to assist a speech language pathologist group facilitator with a THURSDAY MORNING virtual aphasia group
  • One volunteer to assist a speech language pathologist group facilitator with a WEDNESDAY MORNING in-person aphasia group in St. Paul
  • One volunteer to assist a speech language pathologist group facilitator with a FRIDAY AFTERNOON virtual program
  • Assistance with web design

Interested in learning more? Please complete our volunteer application here: Volunteer Interest Form

 

What year did you join MnCAN?

I joined MnCAN last spring. My husband Rick went to the monthly (Primary Progressive Aphasia) PPA group meeting in April while I had a prior commitment: a presentation at St. Thomas called Brain Energy Memory Function. We both have regularly attended the group meetings since then. 

What are your hobbies and interests?

My 5 grandkids are my favorite hobbies and interests. I also enjoy sewing (I enjoy working with my hands, darning my husband’s socks as my grandma taught me), movies, shopping, rearranging things, connecting with people (TALKING!).  I am curious, like to ask questions. Also I like to ride in the car with my husband.

What do you enjoy most about MnCAN?

I just love all of you! Every one of you! I get a sense of freedom being with you. I wish we lived next door to each other. I really appreciate each and every one of you. You have taught me so much. It’s like we see each other. Thank you all for opening a door. 

What do you want people to know about aphasia?

I found out that I have the same type of aphasia as Bruce Willis. He always seems to have a smile on his face but I know that he also must have the daily highs and lows that come with PPA. I have also discovered an elevated beauty—our snow is more beautiful now and with the cold outside the crackling of the fireplace makes me breathe in and out. I have a husband who puts up with me but helps me tremendously, and my family and friends surround me. The Lord is with me. “I say to myself, what a wonderful world.

 

Would YOU like to be featured in our Participant Highlight Section of our upcoming newsletter? 

Email us at contact@mncan.org for more details.

 

 

 

Looking for more aphasia resources?

 

We have compiled a list on our website.

 

Aphasia Resources on MnCAN Website

 

Primary Progressive Aphasia Resources on MnCAN Website

 

 

 
 
Make a life-changing difference - 
DONATE TODAY
 

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