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Changes
Kathy Hughes

I had an automobile accident eleven years ago and it totally changed my life for the better .. spiritually, mentally and emotionally. My right hand is impaired and reading is very difficult. This is minor compared to the ten years when I couldn't speak. I went to physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. I learned patience and I met other survivors who had different problems and we stuck together. I am proud and happy to be called a  Head-Injury Survivor.

I was a social worker and tended bar on the side. After the accident I realized I could not do that anymore but I needed to do something with my life. I went to therapy and learned to tape my daily routine. The first time I wrote, it was what I had eaten for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I learned how to use a pocket dictionary. I learned strategies to overcome my deficits and I gained self-confidence.

Helen Wulf had written a book about her bout with aphasia and that gave me the incentive to write my story as well. In 1982, my family, my genuine friends, my support group and my prayer group helped me plan my book. Then I hired a ghost writer to actually do the writing and we went through it chapter by chapter. I finished the book in 1988 and my life changed. I have a new house, new friends and a new baby. My life now has meaning and daily adventures.

Everyone has ups and downs, good days and bad days but the head-injured are a lot more sensitive and intense so it s very important to have a good support system and a positive attitude. You have to gain self-confidence by searching for ways to help yourself and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. I am learning every day. Life is good and it is worth the effort to enjoy it to the fullest.

Helpful How-To's for Survivors with Aphasia:

• Talking books are great. You can get an application from the public library. You will need a doctor's signature but then you can receive any tape made for the Blind and Handicapped. They will give you a record player, a tape recorder and a catalog. Then you can order anything you want.
• Get a tape recorder and tape letters to friends and family.
• Skim the paper for articles of interest then get a friend to read them to you.
• When you make a phone call, write down what you want to say and then practice talking before you dial. If you're having a bad day (and you know you can talk better on some days than others), don't be afraid to wait until you are feeling more sure of yourself.
• Keep an open mind to various learning aids. Texas Instruments puts out a toy called Speak and Spell . It s a super way to learn and practice spelling.

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