The world of Tzu Chi March 2020(Vol.120)

2020 • 03 56 umanistic Medicine Translated by Chang Yii Yong e Complex Inner Life of Aphasia Patients “I have something to say, but I couldn’t express it in words.” “I’ve spoken my mind, but I’m always misunderstood.” The statements above most likely reflect the thoughts constantly running through the minds of aphasia patients. Aphasia is a speech disorder caused by various circumstances, with stroke, concussions from a car accident or a fall, brain cancer and dementia among the most common. Most of these conditions leave no adverse impact on the patient’s cognitive functions, save for dementia, which is usually associated with speech impairment. Mr A is a nutritionist and researcher who frequently travelled abroad for work. His wife, a music teacher, regularly tutored students at their homes. The childless couple was constantly busy with work. Two years ago, Mr A suddenly fainted while receiving a massage at a sauna centre one afternoon and was rushed to a nearby hospital. After emergency treatment, Mr A was diagnosed with haemorrhagic stroke, warranting him a ten-day stay in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Upon regaining consciousness, he noticed that the right side of his bodywas not as dexterous as before. His speech became fragmented like that of a toddler’s; he stumbled over his words whenever he spoke. He was initially startled by the changes, but instead of lamenting his fate, he Life has been a roller coaster ride for an aphasia patient and his wife since his stroke diagnosis, but instead of backing down, the couple emerged from turbulent times with deeper insights on life. cherished his second chance at life. His wife was patient with him and cared for him meticulously, besides often cracking jokes to cheer him up. In addition, she actively sought information on her husband’s condition through books and the internet, hoping to help him regain his speech abilities. A speech assessment confirmed that Mr A suffered from global aphasia, which impedes patients’ ability to express themselves fluently and comprehend others. His capacity for comprehension gradually improved following speech therapy. The recovery of his ability to express himself was comparatively delayed, but at least he was capable of communicating in short phrases of two to three words. Nevertheless, Mr A was always in high spirits whenever I met him in the therapy room. During his weekly therapy sessions, he and his wife would share with me recent discoveries on their escapades together, including recommendations of places to go to for mouthwatering food or family vacations with scenic views. Living life to the fullest Although Mr A needed assistance in articulating his thoughts from time to time as the couple spoke enthusiastically of their travels, his passion for life shone through. His wife had never pressured him with expectations