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

TZU CHI 120 57 Low Sheng Kun • Speech therapist • Member of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) of time limits by when he should regain his ability to walk or talk. To her, humans are not machines whose defects could be quickly fixed by tightening a few screws, but living, breathing beings whose maladies are rehabilitated through continuous and repeated efforts, while celebrating every accomplishment on the road to recovery, no matter how small. For instance, Mr A’s success in mastering certain tonal pitches that were previously beyond his grasp was worth rejoicing. I once asked Mr A whether he was upset by the changes in his physical agility and speech abilities. “So what?” he bluntly replied, adding that experiencing a stroke gave him the opportunity to gather his thoughts and contemplate the meaning of life. He perceived his ordeal as a sign from above, nudging him to live life at a slower pace or perhaps, chart a different course in life. Life has been a roller coaster ride for Mr A and his wife since his stroke diagnosis, but instead of backing down, the couple emerged from the turbulent times with deeper insights on life. They realized that life is not a one-way street; it unfolds in the most unpredictable ways. Most importantly, so long as we live in the present and savour every moment, life offers us much to learn from. The road to rehabilitation ahead of them is long and winding, but they remained optimistic, constantly assuring me with a smile that they would soldier on together with a positive outlook. A passion for life propels us forward and motivates us to pursue our aspirations. It is more challenging still to keep the passion alive through illness. I admire the couple’s indefatigable spirit and undying thirst for life – they are indeed an inspiration. We only live once. If we drift through life aimlessly and listlessly, we might as well not have lived at all. To quote Steve Jobs, the late co-founder and former CEO of Apple Inc.: “Keep looking, don’t settle.” I have found my calling in life. Have you? How to communicate with aphasia patients • Ensure that the patient’s attention is focused on you before starting to speak. • Speak at a slower pace with normal intonation and volume. • Communicate in short sentences and repeat keywords. • Use hand gestures, sign language, pictures or mobile devices to aid verbal communication. • Allow ample time for the patient to respond to questions. • Ask simple, close-ended questions, e.g. yes/no questions.