I have Aphasia. I’ve gotten better over time, but I was not able to speak, read, and write during the early part of my stroke. A man came into my hospital room at 8 pm at night and said that he was on the speech team. He asked me to sing "Mary Had a Little Lamb." I looked at him like he was crazy! And then I did it all the way through. Even though it felt strange, that simple act of singing became a turning point for me. It reminded me of the power of words and how, in moments of darkness, small actions can light the way. Each note I sang helped me connect with a piece of myself that I thought I'd lost. The road to recovery has been challenging, but experiences like this have shown me that there is hope and progress with every small step. And, I was preparing to leave in-patient rehab, I made sure to express my gratitude to the team. I specifically asked if they could pass along my thanks to the "Speech man." However, it turned out there was no man on the speech therapy team.
I emphasize the significant importance of June as Aphasia Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about this communication disorder that frequently affects stroke survivors. Aphasia can severely impact an individual's ability to speak, understand, read, and write, making everyday interactions and conversations incredibly challenging and frustrating. At Stroke Life Center, we wholeheartedly recognize the vital role that effective communication plays in not only rebuilding connections but also in fostering meaningful relationships within our community. Throughout this month of June, we invite and encourage everyone in our community to join us in supporting those living with aphasia by participating in engaging workshops, sharing valuable resources, and spreading awareness about the effects of this condition. Together, we can create a more inclusive environment where everyone’s voice is heard, respected, and valued.
Ken Humphrey 6/26
SURVIVOR SHOP
You can show your support and pride with custom designed shirts, hats, mugs and more. Every purchase helps fund the programs, events and resources that make the Stroke Life Center such a special place. Together, we thrive – and now, we can do it in style!
Di's Favorite Mac and Cheese Recipe
Each Month we would like to Highlight a favorite Recipe from one of our members! June’s Feature is: Di’s Mac & Cheese, a creamy favorite from our potluck pro!
Ingredients
2 Cups dry macaroni cook one box, 16 oz
2 Cups Milk,
Colby Longhorn and Cheddar Cheese chunks
Directions
Boil macaroni til tender, rinse well. Set aside.
To make cream sauce: Heat Milk, add flour or cornstarch, stir. Add Salt and Pepper.
Shred the Colby Longhorn and Cheddar Cheeses (or use cheese already shredded). Use Plenty.
Large Crock Pot (4-5 Cups)
A layer of macaroni
A layer of shredded cheese
Keep layering until all ingredients are used.
Pour cream sauce over all.
Mix macaroni, cheese and cream sauce.
Add final layer of cheese.
Set Crock Pot on low til ready to serve
May Euchre Tournament
The Stroke Life Center’s Euchre Tournament in May was a smashing success! Tables of four filled the room with laughter, friendly competition, and some serious card-playing skills.
Highlights include:
Lively games and plenty of good-natured banter
Big smiles from our 50/50 raffle winners
Top-scoring teams took home great prizes
And one lucky player proudly claimed the “Lowest Score” award!
Thank you to everyone who came out, played, cheered, and supported the cause. Your energy made the day unforgettable!
Mark Your Calendars! The Cards Return on September 11, 2025
We can’t wait to shuffle the deck and see you back at the table this fall. Bring your best hand—and your best poker face!
Spotlight on Stroke Life Center Partner: Carolyn “Cara” Woods
Carolyn “Cara” Woods
For nearly 20 years, Carolyn “Cara” Woods has been making waves in the world of aquatic therapy—helping individuals regain movement, reduce pain, and rebuild confidence through warm water fitness and rehab. Since 2010, she’s been a dedicated presence at NOMS Healthcare (Northern Ohio Medical Specialists, formerly CPW), and in 2024, she brought her expertise and heart to the Stroke Life Center.
Cara’s passion for water therapy began while she was a student at the University of Toledo, where aquatic therapy played a key role in her clinical internships. “It was a natural progression,” she says, reflecting on her early work at both UT’s Kinesiotherapy Clinic and CPW. “The warm pool has always been a big draw for those looking for both therapy and fitness.”
Over the years, Cara has worked with clients facing a wide range of mobility challenges—from chronic pain to post-surgical recovery to wheelchair use. One of her favorite aspects of aquatic therapy is watching clients experience the joy of standing or walking again in the water. “The warmth and buoyancy allow people to move in ways they can’t on land. It’s truly rewarding to see that spark of hope and confidence return,” she shares. “We also help people who are fearful of the water learn to love it—and that transformation is always powerful.”
In January 2024, Cara began teaching aquatic exercise classes for the Stroke Life Center when the organization moved into its new facility. Since joining, she’s become not just a teacher, but a full-fledged member of the SLC community.
“I was honestly amazed at how much the SLC offers,” Cara says. “There’s always something happening—potlucks, game nights, support groups, outings, and even a multi-day stroke camp. It’s more than a support group—it’s a family.”
Cara has attended several SLC events herself, including the first annual Thriving Like the Stars Gala in October 2024. “It was such an incredible evening—fun, heartfelt, and filled with generosity and amazing dancing!” she recalls. She also joined the group on a Mud Hens outing last summer, where she met even more survivors and caregivers who hadn’t yet dipped their toes into the water-based programs.
What does she wish more people knew about the Stroke Life Center? “That it’s not just a meeting once a month. It’s a vibrant, welcoming community. Stroke recovery can feel lonely, but the SLC ensures no one has to walk that path alone.”
When she’s not in the pool, you’ll find Cara reading, kayaking, hiking, or watching sports (especially her favorite teams—the Chicago Cubs and Blackhawks, despite being a Northwest Ohio native). She also enjoys cuddling with her “grumpy-old-man” dog and, as she jokingly admits, “trying not to kill her houseplants.”
But what she’s most passionate about is the relationships she builds through her work. “Unlike traditional therapy, where patients come and go after a few weeks, I get to work with clients for months or even years. They become friends. They support one another, celebrate milestones, and even plan lunch dates and pool parties outside of class—sometimes with a little sunshine and maybe an adult beverage or two,” she laughs.
With her warmth, expertise, and genuine care, Cara Woods exemplifies the heart of what we value at the Stroke Life Center: connection, compassion, and community.
Calendar and Events
Weekly Calendar
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Mondays
- Aqua Aerobics, , NOMS 3130 Central Park West, Toledo, OH
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Tuesdays
- 2nd and 4th, PT with Angela, SLC,
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Wednesdays
- Stroke Support Group –
- Game Day
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Thursdays
Rotating Activity Afternoon 1-3- Movie Day
- Dinner Night, at Hong Kong Buffet, 3015 Glendale Avenue #300, Toledo, OH
- Art Class
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Fridays
- Art Museum Tour
Future Events
DaZy Aphasia Open House
Time: -
Location:
University of Toledo Speech Language Hearing Clinic,
Main Campus 2025 N. Towerview Blvd.
Join the Faculty, staff and students for an opportunity to explore their clinic, discover more about the DaZy Aphasia Center. Patients and their families are welcomed! Enjoy light refreshments as you learn more about our services and community.
Thriving Like a Star- A Dance-Inspired Gala Benefiting the Stroke Life Center
Save the Date!
Thursday, November 6, 2025
Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration, movement, and community celebration!
Join us for Thriving Like a Star, a dazzling dance-inspired fundraiser supporting the programs and services of the Stroke Life Center. This elegant night will feature:
Live performances from DanceFam Ballroom & Latin Studio
Stories of strength from stroke survivors and caregivers
Auctions, dinner, dancing, and more
Tickets go on sale soon—stay tuned!
Whether you come to dance, dine, or donate, your presence will help stroke survivors in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan continue to heal, connect, and thrive.
Photos of Thriving Like a Star 2024 courtesy of Jennifer Bak and J. Bak Studios.
SLC Celebrates May Stroke Month with an Open House
Stroke Life Center Hosts Open House in Honor of National Stroke Awareness Month
In recognition of National Stroke Awareness Month this May, the Stroke Life Center welcomed the community to an Open House event. Stroke survivors, caregivers, family members, healthcare professionals, and community supporters were invited to attend.
Guests enjoyed guided tours of the facility, led by our Director and Co-Founder, Cindy Roshon, and light refreshments were served. Informational resources for individuals and families navigating stroke recovery were available throughout the event.
A special highlight of the day was the introduction of Dr. Stacey Hoffman, MD, a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Dr. Hoffman delivered an engaging talk on stroke recovery and important healthcare considerations for survivors and caregivers.
If you were unable to attend but would like more information about our services, please contact the Stroke Life Center at 419-800-5433. We look forward to connecting with you!