Rita Wolkind

Rita Wolkind

Almost two years ago, I came back from trip to Israel. I was unpacking and getting ready for a family get-together when I had a stroke. I spent two weeks in the hospital recovering. I could only say four or five words but the therapist didn’t say I had aphasia. It was later that we figured it out.

I got involved with a speech therapy program, a stroke support group, and began practicing speech with apps on my iPad. I started to regain my speech and start speaking in full sentences again.

I enjoy going to the theater, spending time with my husband, Ray, my children and grandchildren, and participating in support groups.

Read more stories

  • Less thas who words....I That the first gut the writhe about this (Bill Jamison) My Story

  • This is a Finding Words story! I have aphasia because I had a stroke. Betsy is my wife and she
    read more...

  • I was first diagnosed with PPA in 2019. I got a second opinion in 2021 because I had gotten worse
    read more...

Learn about aphasia

What is
aphasia?

Get a clear explanation of aphasia, what it affects, and why it can look different from person to person.

What causes
aphasia?

Explore the most common causes of aphasia and how brain changes can lead to communication challenges.

What are symptoms
of aphasia?

Find out what communication challenges people with aphasia face based on what type of aphasia they have.

What are the
types of aphasia?

Learn how aphasia is commonly grouped, what those patterns mean, and why no two experiences are exactly the same.

Diagnosis, recovery,
and prevention

Learn how aphasia is diagnosed, recovery outlook, and prevention tips.

Related
conditions

See which conditions may co-exist with aphasia and how they might affect you.

How is
aphasia treated?

Get more info on how professionals treat aphasia and how different treatments work.

Resources

Articles

Explore expert insights, practical guidance, and real-world perspectives on living with and understanding aphasia.

Webinars

Informative aphasia-focused webinars that support education, shared understanding, and informed decision-making.

Aphasia stories

Personal stories, short films, and perspectives that show how people live, adapt, and communicate with aphasia.

Community

Join In Aphasia is a free online community that brings people together to connect and support one another on their aphasia journey.