dyscover – rediscovering communication

David Smith

David was Chief Executive of Epsom and Ewell Borough Council from 1986-2009. He had a stroke in October 2008 and had to retire.

After his stroke David was unable to speak, walk, or use his right arm. He has slowly recovered with the aid of physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy. He is now able to walk with the aid of a stick but has very little use of my right arm and although his speech has improved, he still finds it difficult to communicate. He also has difficulty reading, writing and occasionally understanding what is said. Dyscover has introduced David to other people living with similar problems and this has helped him to adjust to aphasia. The staff and volunteers have helped him and my partner to find different ways of communicating.

David uses a fantastic communication book that contains information about himself and his family, and it aides him when having a conversation about everyday things. The place he lives, his children and his work and hobbies are all included, as well as maps that enable him to describe important places to him.