I think in the early days, the SLP needs to explain how life might be from the PWA perspective. I hear so many caregivers saying their loved one is lazy, wants to stay in bed, or lacks understanding. I was just as ignorant myself. SLPs need social work skills too.

I’d need help with all the practical things my husband did previously like managing the bank account, gardening, doing most of the driving. We have a fairly traditional marriage and those things heaped on trying to navigate life with aphasia would be a heavy burden.

I was a recipient of The Robin Tavistock Award, and was the first non professional to be recognised. I am part of the steering committee for The Stroke Association Stroke Voices in Research, promoting PPI and keen on more PWA in research.