My name is Carly and I've been a MnCAN SLP group facilitator for nearly 10 years.  I have met the most amazing people over the past years who are so inspiring.  Individuals with aphasia face quite the journey...losing your ability to communicate as you once did.  Can you imagine not being able to say your kid's names or order your favorite coffee?  Can you imagine not being able to keep up with or participate in every day conversation with friends or family?   Can you imagine not being able to send a text message or read the news?  Aphasia makes all of these daily interactions much more challenging.  But MnCAN is here to help.  MnCAN provides conversation and support groups for those living with aphasia.  It's a safe space to keep communicating and continue building confidence.

Aphasia is a language disorder most commonly caused by stroke that limits a person's ability to communicate. Even though aphasia does not change the person's intellectual ability in any way, the difficulty in communication often leads to painful social isolation and loss of quality of life.  Aphasia affects not only speaking but can often affects reading, writing, use of numbers, and understanding of what is being said.  

As a MnCAN SLP facilitator, I've witnessed so much growth, confidence and courage among our participants with aphasia and their families.  Everyone understands what everyone is going though and that alone provides so much comfort and connection.  Amazing friendships have been built and our participants get back to doing what they love.  Yes, it looks different and may not always go as smoothly as they'd like, but they do it and it's amazing.

Please consider donating to MnCAN today so we can continue to provide the support, hope and connection these individuals deserve and need.