Our Programs

 
 
Stroke Survivors and Caregivers sitting at stroke survivor support group

Weekly Support Group

Wednesdays | 1:00 - 2:30 PM


Stroke Life Center

2200 Jefferson Ave., 4-A OMOM Wing
Toledo, OH 43604

Join us each week for our Support Group Meetings—an open and welcoming space where stroke survivors and caregivers can connect, share, and encourage one another on the journey of life after stroke.

Can’t make it in person? You’re welcome to join us on Zoom!
Meeting ID: 883 1177 0323
Passcode: 709779

Our weekly group offers a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where participants can find support, encouragement, and hope. It’s a meaningful opportunity to connect with others who understand the journey, share your story, explore new therapies, and build lasting friendships.

Discussions often center around the unique challenges faced by survivors, practical solutions to everyday issues, and group dialogue that encourages connection and growth. The purpose of the group is to foster socialization, communication skills, and the sharing of ideas to help make life more manageable—and more enjoyable—for all participants.

Each session provides time for open discussion, emotional support, and practical advice. Topics often include:

  • Coping with physical, emotional, and cognitive changes

  • Navigating the healthcare system and post-stroke resources

  • Setting goals and celebrating progress

  • Supporting independence and adjusting to new routines

  • Managing stress, motivation, and mental health

The group is facilitated by our Co-Founder and Executive Director, who is also a stroke survivor. Her firsthand experience brings empathy, strength, and hope to every session—fostering an atmosphere of trust, empowerment, and shared understanding.

To better meet the unique needs of caregivers, a dedicated Caregiver Breakout Session is held during the group on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.

Caregiver Breakout Session

To better support the unique needs of stroke caregivers, a Caregiver Breakout Session takes place during the regular weekly support group meeting on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.

Caring for a stroke survivor is uniquely different from other caregiving roles. Unlike many other support groups that focus on managing decline or progressive illness, caregivers of stroke survivors often support someone who is working toward recovery—who may improve, adapt, and relearn skills over time. This journey can be hopeful, demanding, exhausting, and inspiring—all at once.

Caregivers are tasked with providing consistent, compassionate care while encouraging independence and supporting physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. Balancing these responsibilities with daily life can be overwhelming, and caregivers often risk neglecting their own health in the process.

Our caregiver sessions offer a judgment-free space to:

  • Share experiences and receive emotional support

  • Learn strategies for maintaining balance and personal well-being

  • Exchange resources and practical advice

  • Build lasting friendships with others who understand the journey

  • Laugh, cry, vent, and find renewed strength

Caregiving goals include promoting patient safety, encouraging maximum independence, and communicating with patience and compassion—while also prioritizing self-care and mental wellness.

You don’t have to do it alone. Join us to reconnect with your purpose, refill your cup, and walk this road with others who truly understand.


Male stroke survivor doing physical or occupation therapy

Group Physical & Occupational Therapy

Tuesdays | 1-2 PM

Stroke Life Center

2200 Jefferson Ave., 4-A OMOM Wing
Toledo, OH 43604

At the Stroke Life Center, we offer free physical and occupational therapy sessions to our members as part of our mission to support stroke recovery through accessible, person-centered care.

Our therapy services are led by licensed professionals and supported by students training in the fields of physical and occupational therapy, offering members both expert guidance and fresh, personalized attention. Together, they help participants work toward realistic goals that foster mobility, strength, coordination, and independence.

  • Physical Therapy focuses on improving movement, strength, balance, and endurance to support daily function and prevent falls.

  • Occupational Therapy helps individuals relearn or adapt everyday tasks—such as grooming, cooking, or writing—promoting independence and enhancing quality of life.

Therapy sessions are individualized, progress-driven, and encouraging—designed to help members regain confidence and ability at their own pace.

Please note: While sessions are supervised by trained staff and students, if you need assistance with equipment or mobility, we kindly ask that you bring a caregiver to support your participation.


stroke survivor and caregiver along with therapist performing aqua therapy in NOMS pool

Aquatic Therapy

Mondays | 10:30 - 11:30 AM


NOMS CPE Healthcare

3130 Central Park Dr. W, Ste A
Toleod, OH 43617

Our Aquatic Therapy program—sometimes called “aqua therapy”—offered in partnership with NOMS Healthcare, provides a safe, supportive, and uplifting environment where stroke survivors and caregivers can improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.

In guided sessions, participants use the natural resistance of water to build muscle strength, improve balance, and reduce joint strain. The buoyancy of the water makes movement low-impact and accessible, creating opportunities for recovery at every stage. More than just physical exercise, this program builds confidence, fosters social connection, and offers emotional support within a welcoming community.

Program Highlights:

  • Supervised by licensed professionals from NOMS Healthcare

  • Adaptable for all ability levels

  • Focused on functional movement, mobility, and core strength

  • Open to both survivors and caregivers

  • Inclusive, encouraging, group-based atmosphere

What to Know Before You Participate:
Changing rooms are available on-site. Please bring a swimsuit and water shoes to participate.
If you need assistance with dressing or getting in and out of the pool, you must bring a caregiver, family member, or support person to help you.


stroke survivor and speech therapist sitting in a room

Speech Therapy

Wednesdays | 12 - 1 PM

Stroke Life Center

2200 Jefferson Ave., 4-A OMOM Wing
Toledo, OH 43604

At the Stroke Life Center, our Speech Therapy program is led by a licensed speech therapist who brings both expertise and compassion to every session. Designed specifically for stroke survivors, this program helps participants rebuild essential communication skills—whether that means improving speech clarity, strengthening memory, or regaining confidence in everyday conversations. Beyond language, our therapy also supports cognitive functions like problem-solving and comprehension, helping survivors reconnect with loved ones and re-engage in daily life.

Because every survivor’s journey is unique, our therapist tailors strategies to individual goals, creating a supportive and encouraging environment where progress—big or small—is celebrated. Offered at no cost, our Speech Therapy program empowers survivors not only to find their voice again, but also to rediscover a greater sense of independence and connection.


stroke survivors, caregivers, around a table with art therapist decorating cowboy hats

Art Therapy

Thursdays | 1 - 2:30 PM

Stroke Life Center

2200 Jefferson Ave., 4-A OMOM Wing
Toledo, OH 43604

Our art therapy program gives survivors and caregivers a joyful way to express emotions, boost cognitive skills, and ease stress through creativity. No artistic experience is required—just an open heart and willingness to explore. In addition to hands-on sessions, we enjoy field trips to the art museum, where participants find inspiration, connection, and a renewed sense of community.


two stroke survivors sitting in frenchship bench room having a conversation

Friendship Bench

Thursdays | 1 - 2:30 PM

Stroke Life Center

2200 Jefferson Ave., 4-A OMOM Wing
Toledo, OH 43604

The Friendship Bench is a welcoming space where stroke survivors and caregivers can sit together, connect, and engage in meaningful conversation. Designed to support mental acuity and emotional well-being, the program encourages social interaction, memory building, and peer-to-peer support. Whether sharing stories, practicing communication, or simply enjoying companionship, the Friendship Bench helps participants strengthen both minds and friendships in a safe, uplifting environment.


stroke survivors and caregivers at dinner at a Mexican restaurant

Community & Enrichment

Life after stroke is about more than therapy—it’s about joy, connection, and shared experiences. Our community and enrichment programs include group outings, social activities, and cultural field trips, such as visits to the art museum or local sporting events. These opportunities help survivors and caregivers build friendships, stay engaged, and rediscover the simple joys of life together.