Lauren Gallagher - Fitness for Aphasia

Hi Everyone!

Throughout grad school, I volunteered with the American Aphasia Society (AAS).  The AAS founder, Karen Kelly, is an inspiring aphasia advocate with a drive to help people with aphasia access vital resources. Last year, I started a fundraising campaign in order to raise money for the AAS, while promoting cardiovascular health and stroke prevention amongst colleagues. 

Fast forward a year, and I'm thrilled to announce that grad students at Emerson are continuing with the Fitness for Aphasia tradition and invited me to join their team. To make an active dedication to this campaign, I have committed to 150 minutes per week of cardiovascular activity for four weeks. I am running, walking, hiking, exercising, and "hot yoga-ing" in order to speak up for a population that cannot do so for themselves. 

What is aphasia?? Aphasia is a language disorder that can occur after stroke or brain injury. People with aphasia have difficulty communicating, but their intelligence is intact. Aphasia can make daily tasks (e.g., socializing, grocery shopping, paying bills) challenging. Unfortunately, this population can be misunderstood and judged as less competent due to the language disorder. Throughout my graduate studies, clinical placements, volunteer opportunities and now, as I complete my clinical fellowship in speech-language pathology, I have had a multitude of opportunities to work with the aphasia population and realize the importance of supporting the AAS. 

I am seeking donors to pledge money to my fitness commitment (150 minutes/week) in order to support the American Aphasia Society. Donations of any size are greatly appreciated! Another way you can help is by sharing my page via email, social media, etc. 

Thank you!!!