Callier Center for Communication Disorders

I would like to share a story about Marie, who is one of our patients in the Communication Learning Program (CLP) at the Callier Center for Communication Disorders. CLP is a community-based program that provides speech and language therapy to adults who are faced with significant communication disabilities due to acquired neurological disorders such as stroke or traumatic brain injury.

One Friday morning, Marie did not arrive at her job. Her sister asked Marie’s neighbor to check in on her. The neighbor found Marie on the floor and called 911.

At age 51, Marie had suffered a hemorrhagic stroke that left her in the ICU in a medically induced coma. After 21 days in the ICU, seven days in the high dependency unit and approximately seven weeks of rehab, Marie was released.

Marie was still very weak. She had to learn to do everything over again: talk, walk, dress herself, eat and so much more. She could no longer live by herself, so she stayed with her sister. Before her family would let her move back home, Marie needed to be able to communicate.

Marie discovered the Communication Learning Program at the Callier Center, where she has participated in extensive one-on-one and group speech and language activities. CLP has helped Marie improve her communication skills, including using an iPad to help her speak. Because of CLP, Marie has moved back into her home and is living independently.

The majority of CLP participants, like Marie, have either exhausted their insurance benefits or have no benefits at all, leaving them with no means to access continued care. Thanks to support from compassionate donors, we are able to offer this program and help these individuals.

Unfortunately, we all know someone who has suffered from a stroke or a traumatic brain injury, whether it be a parent, grandparent or a friend. Please help someone’s loved one reclaim his or her life by supporting the Communication Learning Program at the Callier Center for Communication Disorders.