Introduction of Aphasia Awareness Resolution

Floor Speech

INTRODUCTION OF APHASIA AWARENESS RESOLUTION -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 27, 2007)

* Mr. MARKEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to introduce legislation to support the goals of National Aphasia Awareness Month

* Aphasia is a disease that causes the loss of the ability to produce and/or comprehend language it can also impair a person's ability to read and write. Each case is different depending on the severity of the stroke or brain trauma and definitely does not affect everyone is the same way. This condition is a result of damage to the left hemisphere of the brain. The main cause of aphasia is stroke. Strokes are the third leading cause of death and disability in the United States today and their affects are felt not only by the victim but also by the victim's family and friends. Other causes of aphasia include blows to the head, gun shot wounds, and brain tumors.

* Currently there is research being done on how to help people with Aphasia enjoy a better quality of life. Aphasia does not cause any kind of disability in thinking or learning but in the comprehension of things that are said and how to respond to people. People who suffer from aphasia are able to function in every day life, but they need assistance and attention. Moreover, further research is needed to improve our understanding of how to identify the risk factors that cause aphasia, prevent the occurrence of aphasia and improve the ability to function of those with the disease.

* There are currently about one million cases of aphasia in the United States, and about 80,000 people are afflicted with the disease every year. By working with vocational specialists, speech-language pathologists and family and friends, many of those with aphasia may be able to obtain some sense of normalcy and regain some of their skills. I am introducing this resolution to support the goals of National Aphasia Awareness Month with the hope that it will bring more attention to this disease and give a voice to those who suffer from Aphasia who often cannot speak for themselves. This resolution recognizes June 2007 as National Aphasia Awareness Month in hopes of giving more attention to this illness and in hopes that more recognition will highlight the importance of research and compassion to the daily struggle faced by those affected by Aphasia.

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