Mick & Kath
Before aphasia, Mick describes his life in one word: “easy.”
Mick was still working two days a week as an Industrial Chemist, a role that reflected his sharp thinking and love of problem-solving. Outside of work, he was rarely still. As a skilled dry stone waller, he spent many hours building walls and teaching others the craft. Alongside his wife Kath, Mick volunteered with the Friends of Darwen Cemetery, where he was also chair of the working group.
Reading was a huge part of Mick’s life. He was a passionate reader of non-fiction and has a deep interest in the natural world. In fact, Mick has never owned a television! Books, conversation and the outdoors were always his priorities.
Life was full, purposeful and familiar. Then, on 4th July 2022, everything changed.
Life after stroke: Adjusting to aphasia
In the summer of 2022, Mick experienced a stroke. He spent a long time in hospital, and when he finally returned home, life looked very different.
“Physical changes… can’t walk,” Mick explains. His left side is paralysed, bringing daily physical challenges alongside the communication difficulties caused by aphasia.
Mick and Kath were some of the first people to join our charity's new Aphasia Café in Blackburn. Now, attending Aphasia Support's weekly group sessions has become an important part of their lives - helping them form friendships, build confidence, and enjoy conversation in a welcoming, supportive environment.
For Mick, one of the hardest things is “continuing conversation.” Talking now takes effort and patience. Being unable to read, something he loved, has also been a significant loss.
Aphasia has changed the rhythm of everyday life. Conversations can feel tiring and frustrating. Words don’t always come easily, and sentences may be shorter - but Mick’s wide vocabulary and thoughtful word choices still shine through.
At home, Mick and Kath have found new ways to share what they love. In the evenings, Kath now reads aloud so they can enjoy books together. A new routine, and special moments, keep them connected.
Finding the right support
When asked why he joined the Blackburn Aphasia Café, Mick’s answer is clear: “It fits the need.”
The Aphasia Café provides something that can be hard to find elsewhere - a space where communication isn’t rushed or judged. Mick enjoys “not feeling challenged” during the sessions and describes them as “fun.”
For Kath, the value of the group is just as powerful. “It’s solidarity,” she says. “You feel like you are one amongst equals.”
There is so much comfort in being surrounded by people who truly understand what it's like to live, or care for someone, with aphasia.
Growing confidence through connection
Since joining the Blackburn Aphasia Café, Mick has made friendships, progress and feels more content. When asked what has improved, Mick proudly shares “conversation… my confidence.”
That confidence is significant. Aphasia can affect not just communication, but identity and self-esteem. Being able to take part in conversation, at his own pace, has helped Mick reconnect with others and feel more like himself.
The group is led by Speech and Language Therapist, Naomi Saul, alongside volunteers who provide practical help and peer support. Together, the group enjoys supported conversation, laughter, and understanding - all vital ingredients in rebuilding confidence and communication after a stroke.
Words of wisdom
Mick has clear advice for anyone newly diagnosed with aphasia:
“Find respectful support… hold on to your self-respect.”
Kath’s message comes from the heart too:
“Hang on in there, work at it and keep on going.”
For Mick and Kath, life may no longer be “easy,” but it is still rich with meaning, connection and carefully chosen words. At the Blackburn Aphasia Café, their lives aren't defined by aphasia - they are part of a welcoming community where support, friendship, and understanding always come first.
