Report: Berlin Aphasia Day 2019 On October 12, the Aphasia State Association held its 4th Berlin Aphasia Day. As always, it took place at the premises of the Berliner Stadtmission on Lehrter Straße. Before the event began at 10 a.m., participants were able to enjoy coffee, tea, and pastries. Mr. André Laqua, the Berlin State Chairman, gave the welcoming speech and conveyed greetings from the board in Würzburg. Ms. Ines Krahn moderated the event. The first presentation, by Ms. Doro Frangopoulos, focused on reading in simple language. There are several easy-to-read books for people with aphasia. These books have been rewritten and are therefore easier to understand. These books can also be borrowed from libraries. Many people with aphasia have found a renewed zest for life as a result. The second presentation was given by Prof. Dr. Annette Baumgärtner. It focused on a study on intensive therapy. It emerged that even after years of aphasia, intensive therapy is indicated and very useful. After the second lecture, there was a lunch break. Participants could help themselves to a varied buffet. The third lecture, by Dr. Robert Darkow, dealt with EMS brain stimulation. Here, too, it was demonstrated that improvements had occurred. In all three lectures, the participants showed great interest by asking questions at the end. The subsequent dialogue forum was moderated by Mona Samuel. There was a panel discussion with three affected individuals:
Karin Jürschik
Annette Schutz
Lutz Hinze. They spoke about their stroke, their fears afterward, and how they cope with it today. A lively discussion followed. The day concluded with a performance by the Aphasic Choir Berlin. The information material, flyers, donation box, and the aphasia calendar for 2020 were well received. It was a very successful and well-attended event. Angelika Scheibner & Burkhard Hoffmann
