2 years ago I had a stroke that affected my communication, this is called Aphasia. For many of us with aphasia, life became trickier as our ability to speak and write effortlessly have gone; we ask people to repeat what they said as we simply cannot get it when they speak fast and about complex things. We need to read and re-read texts/e-mails/letters to make sure we know what it's about... Family, friends, work colleagues are all asked to adjust their communication so we can be involved in life more, for some this is hard. But when they do, when you do, trust me, it really helps and makes us feel loved and valued again. 

Aphasia affects relationships, affects our ability to carry on working as we did prior to this unplanned stroke. I get annoyed, as I used to be able to do things, like typing these few paragraphs really easily, now I needed to ask for some help. Many others have aphasia as a result of a stroke - about 300 000 people in the UK.

We are all very determined, I'm one of them. Many people who had a stroke also have their physical difficulties, some walk with a limp and have reduced use of an arm, some are permanently in wheelchairs. Luckily for me, my physical abilities have not been affected and since my stroke, I've been challenging myself, completing many cycling and other sports challenges, trying to spread the word about aphasia. 

Big up all the people with aphasia! 

Dyscover has helped me, it is a great charity, supporting people like me, who had a stroke and have aphasia. We have become one family, encouraging each other to get through life with smile on our faces. It's a place where people truly understand each other. There are many groups during the week and all are led by a Speech and language therapist.There are two sites, the Prudential cyclists will have the privilege to cycle past the main site in Walton on the Hill. Please look up our website for more information www.dyscover.org.uk. 

Well, let's hope it won't be raining on the day as I might be fit but I am a bit rain sensitive... I also need the wind behind me so get blowing!!

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