Paul's Story
Before his stroke, Paul was a director at a local garage and loved spending time on the golf course. Life was busy and active. But everything changed on 15th November 2024, when Paul experienced a devastating stroke.
Paul's stroke left him with weakness in his right arm and mild expressive aphasia. Everyday communication became a constant struggle. Paul often felt frustrated and alone.
“By yourself, first of all you are lost, you are not who you were, everything takes such a long time.”
At first, progress was slow and discouraging. Although Paul found it easier to speak with family and close friends, conversations with others felt daunting. Paul’s speech was improving gradually, but he struggled with his confidence. Each day required patience and determination.
Paul often felt as though his speech didn’t come out the way he wanted it to - especially if he was tired, or felt under pressure. His recovery was steady, and his expressive language was returning, but the journey felt emotionally draining at times.
Finding confidence in connection
Through the NHS, Paul was referred to Aphasia Support's new Communication Group in York. Here, he worked closely with the charity's Speech & Language Therapist, Karen - alongside Speech & Language Therapy Assistant, Steve. The group provided a safe, understanding environment for Paul to explore different communication strategies and work towards achieving his personal goals.
Over seven sessions, Pail received lots of support from volunteers, including Matilda, Paddy and Sacha. Together, they explored tools and strategies to help improve Paul's speech fluency and accuracy. Using the charity's iPad, Paul accessed bespoke apps such as Cuespeak, which helped him work on longer words and phrases - recording his speech for feedback. He also learned to watch his listeners’ facial expressions and body language for cues that they understood him - a new approach that helped him to communicate with confidence.
As Paul reflected on his experience, he shared how grateful he was for the practical and emotional support he received from the group:
“The group helped me by the shared experience of talking to other people who understand what you are going through. I have learned to tell people I am talking to, that I have had a stroke and I have trouble speaking. Now they understand my problems and give me more time - I wouldn’t have known to do that before the group.”
A new outlook on life
Week by week, Paul's confidence began to grow. With encouragement from staff, volunteers and his peers, Paul contributed more actively in sessions and enjoyed the sense of community he felt being part of the group. The atmosphere felt relaxed, and the supportive environment really helped Paul to thrive.
Through supported conversation, Paul made noticeable changes - making fewer speech errors and finding communication less stressful. He said the group made "a massive difference" in his life, noting that his confidence and independence have improved significantly.
Paul describes his experience with Aphasia Support as “fantastic,” “rewarding” and an “eye opener.” He says:
“The group has lifted up all parts of my life and helped me move forward after my stroke. Everyone made a massive difference. It’s helped me feel 100% better - more independent and confident.”
Paul now feels optimistic about the future and grateful for the volunteers and staff who supported his recovery journey. He says he would “100% recommend Aphasia Support to other people."
We are incredibly proud of Paul and the progress he has made through attending Aphasia Support's Communication Group in York. He's learnt to communicate with confidence and is now enjoying life to the fullest - exploring the world and making new friends along the way.
