150 likes | 493 Views
Stroke A Chord A Choir for people with aphasia. Stroke A Chord – Stroke. Stroke is Australia’s second single greatest killer after coronary heart disease and a leading cause of disability 60,000 strokes annually in Australia
E N D
Stroke A Chord – Stroke • Stroke is Australia’s second single greatest killer after coronary heart disease and a leading cause of disability • 60,000 strokes annually in Australia • Between 25 per cent and 40 per cent of people get aphasia as part of a stroke
What is aphasia? • Aphasia is a language difficulty caused by damage to the left side of the brain. The most common cause is stroke. • Aphasia can affect expression, comprehension or both
Impacts of aphasia • Loss and grief (employment, recreation, family and friends) • Depression / social isolation • Literacy, numeracy • Memory
The beginning • Idea – Wendy Lyons • (Stroke survivor) • Identifying project partners (Maroondah City Council, Yooralla, Croydon Stroke Support Group, Royal Talbot, MAPrc) • Establishing a Committee • Locating a venue (sustainable)
Received a research grant (Music to improve the Social and Emotional Experience of People Living with Aphasia) • Research paper seeking publication in an international journal • Ethics Approval – Queensland University • Music therapist, music teacher
Benefits of the project • Improving social inclusion (members outside of Croydon Stroke Support Group) • Boosting self esteem - performance / Today Show • Creating friendships
Impact of the Choir • Improving family relations – Brett & Joan • Opening new doors – swimming, lunch, movies • South Australia / Newcastle / WA / Darwin connection
Debut performance • Karralyka Theatre 17 September 2011 • Performing to a sell out crowd of 430 • Funds raised back into the Choir • Media coverage (Channel 9 on 6pm news)
Documentary • Educational and human interest • Received grants from Ian Potter Foundation / Pierce Armstrong Foundation • The Local Project / Rotary • Aim to have the documentary aired on national TV
Sustainability / future and roles of the Choir • Book • Fundraising • Education (eg public speaking) • Committee • Conferences • Performances • Research • Website / Facebook maintenance
Further information • www.strokeachord.com • www.facebook.com/strokeachord • Videos of choir (Channel 9 News, Today) • Latest news on stroke, aphasia and music therapy • Resources on stroke, aphasia and music therapy • Articles and photos of the choir • Music therapy page • Research on aphasia