I am a social worker and equal rights advocate. I taught at Fordham University in New York City and founded organizations including a shelter for abused women and children, and a national advocacy group for minorities. In 2001, I needed open heart surgery. While recovering, I had a stroke which led to aphasia.

I started speech therapy but after six months my insurance ran out. So I joined support groups and ultimately found a communication program at Montclair State University that helped me. For two years, I worked hard and taught myself how to read again. Eventually I found the Adler Aphasia Center.

By using speech-generating devices, I began speaking on behalf of people with aphasia. I love advocating for people with aphasia but most of all I love my seven kids and husband, John.