EDT: Young Survivors Under 40
***This session is for YOUNG SURVIVORS, AGES 19-40 ONLY.*** Join other young people with aphasia for fun group activities and lots of conversation! Members will be encouraged to help guide the topic of conversation and engage with each other. FACILITATOR(S): Ann Blau
EDT: Open Chat
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow- Richards
EDT: Caregivers: Therapeutic music tips from a certi...
***This session is for Caregivers only*** Learn about Neurologic Music Therapy techniques like Melodic Intonation Therapy and Rhythmic Speech Cueing. Get some ideas for intentional uses of music in your home. FACILITATOR(S): Alie Chandle
EDT: Strong & Fit
Follow along to activate and strengthen your muscles in a seated or standing workout. All levels are welcome, feel free to have light weights or bands for an extra challenge! FACILITATOR(S): Larissa Shahin
EDT: Rhythm & Word Practice with Kiersten
Fun, upbeat exercises to help you get words out using lyrics and rhythm! New material each month! This session is a sampler of Kiersten's BeyondHighC.com communication class for people with Aphasia. This is a fun, uplifting session featuring words and upbeat popular music you know! FACILITATOR(S): Kiersten Kanaster
EDT: Couples Open Chat
***This session is for couples- both the person with aphasia and partner should be in attendance.*** Calling all couples! Has your relationship changed since aphasia moved in? Is your communication different now? Has your connection and intimacy been impacted? Do you miss who you used to be? If you answered "yes" to any of these…
EDT: Tuesday Talk
Join the Thiel College SLP students to chat about a variety of fun topics! This session will meet every Tuesday. FACILITATOR(S): Jeanette Benigas
EDT: Writing, Typing & Texting
Writing and texting are great ways to gather your thoughts and get your point across. Let’s practice our writing skills to improve communication. Get your pen and paper, keyboards or smartphones ready! FACILITATOR(S): Nundini Patel
EDT: Let’s Talk About it- Beyond Wants and Needs
Persons with aphasia and their families often identify a key goal in communication as improving the ability to have conversations with others. Conversation goes well beyond informing people of wants and needs. Initiating a conversation and keeping a conversation going supports social closeness and information sharing. Join us in a conversation among friends about a variety of topics.…
EDT: Holidays around the World
What holidays do you celebrate? Holidays around the world give people a reason to come together, eat good foods, and celebrate life. Join us to look at some well-known holidays from around the world. FACILITATOR(S): Melissa Edrich
EDT: Club De Cultura
Si hablas español y te interesa aprender sobre diferentes culturas, idiomas, y países, este es el grupo para usted! Hablamos de culturas mundiales. Los temas incluyen la comida, la ropa, las fiestas, los sitios famosos, y más. Todos son bienvenidos. Esta sesión se realiza en español. FACILITATOR(S): Irene Williams
EDT: Veterans Hangout
***This session is for military veterans only.*** Join Veteran Joe to have an open discussion and introduce new members. Share with the group and get to know other Veterans with Aphasia. FACILITATOR(S): Joseph Martin
EDT: San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Join the students at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music as they play an array of pieces. Don't miss this wonderful music session!! FACILITATOR(S): Conservatory Students
EDT: Aphasia 101
Aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria...what does that all mean??? Interested in learning more about the brain, strokes, and aphasia? Join this session hosted by a speech therapist to learn more! Bring your questions! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Supported Small Talk: Pets
***This session is designed for members who need extra communication support. Mini Chat sessions will only be 30 minutes in length.*** Join this session to share about your pets. We will introduce our pets and share pictures. We hope to see you there! FACILTIATOR(S): Teresa Thompson
EDT: Let’s Talk About it- Beyond Wants and Needs
Persons with aphasia and their families often identify a key goal in communication as improving the ability to have conversations with others. Conversation goes well beyond informing people of wants and needs. Initiating a conversation and keeping a conversation going supports social closeness and information sharing. Join us in a conversation among friends about a…
EDT: Thursday Talk
Join the Thiel College SLP students to chat about a variety of fun topics! This session will meet every Thursday. FACILITATOR(S): Jeanette Benigas
EDT: Aphasia + Math
Everyday Math for People with Aphasia Play games with other people with aphasia to help rebuild basic math skills! Join Allie Reed (SLP), Dr. Tami Brancamp (SLP), and David Brancamp (Math Expert) to work on counting, adding, subtracting, etc. Please bring a deck of cards and two dice, if you have them! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed ,…
EDT: Open Chat with Allie
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: A New Year In Review
We will spend an hour reflecting on the year that has passed and consider new opportunities for 2024! Join us! FACILITATOR(S): Lynsey Keator
EDT: Mindfulness & Meditation
Relax and unwind with some meditation and mindful breathing techniques. Learn how to practice mindful breathing in your everyday routine. FACILITATOR(S): Michael Shemesh
EDT: MEN’S OPEN CHAT
***This session is FOR MEN ONLY.*** Join us to practice casual conversation with other men with aphasia in small groups. If you struggle to get words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. Come and meet others with aphasia! FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow-Richards
EDT: Open Chat
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow- Richards
EDT: Piano with Dr. Dick
Help Dr. Dick get this day started right out in Washington state. Come listen and sing along to some favorite old songs played on the piano. Once you register, we will send you the lyrics and links to the songs on YouTube You can prepare ahead of time, or you can just kick back and enjoy. Happy Birthday: for those with birthdays since last session 1. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear …
EDT: Strong & Fit: Holiday Edition
Follow along to activate and strengthen your muscles in a seated or standing workout. Let's burn off some of those after holiday calories. All levels are welcome, feel free to have light weights or bands for an extra challenge! FACILITATOR(S): Larissa Shahin
EDT: Winter Wonderland Open Chat
Winter holidays, good food, cold weather, and so much more! Let's chat in small groups about your favorite winter things! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Winter Wonderland Traditions
This interactive video call provides a platform for individuals with aphasia to share their own experiences and stories related to winter traditions, creating an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for all participants. So, join us in celebrating the enchanting "Winter Wonderland" and discover the shared joys and diverse traditions that make this season truly magical. …
EDT: Let’s Talk About it- Beyond Wants and Needs
Persons with aphasia and their families often identify a key goal in communication as improving the ability to have conversations with others. Conversation goes well beyond informing people of wants and needs. Initiating a conversation and keeping a conversation going supports social closeness and information sharing. Join us in a conversation among friends about a variety of topics.…
EDT: Writing About The Cold (or less hot) Times
Whether it's cold or just less hot, let's write about this time of year. Bring with you the writing tool you would like to practice using (pen and paper, keyboard, smart phone, etc. ) and let's work on writing together. FACILITATOR(S): Nundini Patel
EDT: Winter Trivia
Come show off your winter and holiday knowledge! All responses are welcome and will be presented and answered in an aphasia friendly way. Bring a friend and join together over zoom. FACILITATOR(S): Anna Reeve
EDT: Pathways VIP CLUB (CLOSED GROUP)
***This is a closed group*** This monthly team meeting is for the VC superstars who have completed all 8 of the Pathways Webinar Series. Want to be invited to this group? Join us for the next Pathways Series and complete all 8 webinars! FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow-Richards
EDT: CarePartner: Supporting PPA
***This group is for care partners or caregivers of people living with aphasia that is getting worse.*** While some difficulties are similar to those seen in people who have aphasia after a stroke, people facing worsening communication skills have some unique challenges. Join people who can relate to those unique parts of your experience and…
EDT: Fa-la-la-la-Holiday Sing-Along!
It is time to carol from the comfort of your home! Enjoy holiday classics by artists such as Andy Williams and a fresh take on the oldies by artists like Michael Bublé. Belt it out (don't worry, you can mute yourself!) We will also be holding a Holiday costume contest - so come dressed in…
EDT: Veterans Hangout
***This session is for military veterans only.*** Join Veteran Joe to have an open discussion and introduce new members. Share with the group and get to know other Veterans with Aphasia. FACILITATOR(S): Joseph Martin
EDT: Writing and Saying Winter Words
***Please note: This class is limited in size. If you sign up for this session, please mark your calendar and plan to attend. If you need to miss it, please unenroll so another person can attend.*** Cold, snow, and shovel are justa few of the words we use in the winter. Grab a whiteboard or paper as…
EDT: Parle Francais: Winter Words for Beginners
Come learn basic vocabulary about winter in French (for example: winter vacations, winter words). This session is for people with no knowledge or little knowledge of the French language. FACILITATOR(S): Wendy Cook
EDT: Warm Winter Drinks – Happy Hour
Grab a drink and join us for a warm winter happy hour! Hot chocolate, hot cider, coffee, chai tea, or hot buttered rum are just of few of the warm drinks people enjoy in the cold months of winter. In this session, you will meet others with aphasia from around the world. We will divide…
EDT: Living with TBI
This session is for Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). This session is not intended for stroke survivors. Recovery and aphasia after a Traumatic Brain Injury can be very different from that of a stroke. Join us to meet other TBI survivors and to chat about the ways in which your lives have changed following your…
EDT: Member Spotlight
Come join our fellow VC member, Jill Ventrice, as she shares her inspirational aphasia story and the lessons she has learned along this aphasia journey. You won’t want to miss this motivational session! FACILITATOR(S): Katie Strong
EDT: Improv Games
Did you know that improv acting helps build communication skills? Join us for improv games for aphasia. We will communicate creatively and have fun. No experience necessary! Dr. Brooke Hallowell, and professional improv actor and SLP, Ruth Jenkins will facilitate. FACILITATOR(S): Dr. Brooke Hallowell & Ruth Jenkins
EDT: Member Spotlight
Come join our fellow VC member, Ray Magnus, as he shares his inspirational aphasia story and the lessons he has learned along this aphasia journey. You won’t want to miss this motivational session! FACILITATOR(S): Katie Strong
EDT: Hanukkah Celebration
Join this session to talk about your holiday plans, celebrate the story of Hanukkah, and listen to holiday songs! We hope to see you there!! FACILITATOR(S): Rachel Lyons
EDT: Club De Cultura
Si hablas español y te interesa aprender sobre diferentes culturas, idiomas, y países, este es el grupo para usted! Hablamos de culturas mundiales. Los temas incluyen la comida, la ropa, las fiestas, los sitios famosos, y más. Todos son bienvenidos. Esta sesión se realiza en español. FACILITATOR(S): Irene Williams
EDT: Writing, Typing & Texting
Writing and texting are great ways to gather your thoughts and get your point across. Let’s practice our writing skills to improve communication. Get your pen and paper, keyboards or smartphones ready! FACILITATOR(S): Nundini Patel
EDT: Lingraphica Device Users
This new monthly club is for members who use a Lingraphica communication device. These sessions will focus on helping you learn how to use your device better and incorporate it into your day-to-day activities. Care-partners are encouraged to join us! ***This session is not for technical support. If you are having trouble with your Lingraphica Device, please…
EDT: Charlando con Maria y Rosanna
hablemos de nuestras vacaciones y nuestras bebidas favoritas! FACILITADORA(S): Maria Gallego y Rosanna Duran
EDT: Living with PPA
***This session is for families living with Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA).*** Join the Nova Southeastern graduate students: We’ll discuss how communication changes with PPA and ways to support conversation as PPA evolves. Participants will be encouraged to share ideas and experiences. Group leaders will provide examples & strategies. What is PPA? Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a condition that results from damage to areas of…
EDT: Make-up & Beauty Tips with Mel
Let's get together to discuss different make-up brands, application tips, tools, and skin care! FACILITATOR(S): Melanie Baez
EDT: Strong & Fit
Follow along to activate and strengthen your muscles in a seated or standing workout. All levels are welcome, feel free to have light weights or bands for an extra challenge! FACILITATOR(S): Larissa Shahin
EDT: Name That Tune
In this song-filled session, we will listen to popular American music throughout the decades. You’ll have the chance to flex your music trivia muscles by naming the tune, guessing the composer, and even learn little-known facts about the various artists and songs. Along the way, we will also get to know more about each other…
EDT: Movie Musicals
How about a song and a dance? We will watch our favorite performers in some of the most captivating scenes and musical numbers from the great movie-musicals, starting with the 1930s to modern day. Includes trivia! FACILITATOR(S): Christina Rivera
EDT: Parle Francais
Come learn basic sentences in French and talk in French. This session is for people with some knowledge of the French language. FACILITATOR(S): Wendy Cook
EDT: Open Chat
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow- Richards
EDT: Strong & Fit
Follow along to activate and strengthen your muscles in a seated or standing workout. All levels are welcome, feel free to have light weights or bands for an extra challenge! FACILITATOR(S): Larissa Shahin
EDT: Winter Drinks
Join us while we make traditional hot chocolate, Christmas Punch, and Mulled Cider. Bring your favorite holiday drink or snack recipes! FACILITATOR: Randi Dirnberger
EDT: Sing Aphasia: Aphasia Choir
Sing Aphasia is a community-based organization that offers music programs for individuals with aphasia and their families. Join Dr. Gillian Velmer to sing some familiar songs and test your musical knowledge. Easy to read lyrics will be displayed on the screen so you can join in. FACILITATOR(S): Dr. Gillian Velmer
EDT: Aphasia Master 3+ Years
***A session for people living with aphasia for 3 years or more after your stroke to chat about all kinds of interesting topics*** Let’s talk about identity: You are more than your aphasia: Share about your life BEFORE Aphasia. Who were you? Your world of work, your hobbies, your likes and dislikes. How has your life changed? FACILITATOR(S): Dr. Glenn Goldblum & Barb Meyer
EDT: Aphasia + Math
Everyday Math for People with Aphasia Play games with other people with aphasia to help rebuild basic math skills! Join Allie Reed (SLP), Dr. Tami Brancamp (SLP), and David Brancamp (Math Expert) to work on counting, adding, subtracting, etc. Please bring a deck of cards and two dice, if you have them! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed ,…
EDT: Aphasia Newbies: Less than 2 Years
***This session is for members who have had aphasia for less than 2 years.*** Are you NEW to aphasia? Join this Open Chat session where you can meet others with aphasia who are in a similar stage of recovery as you. If you struggle to get words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to…
EDT: Club De Cultura
Si hablas español y te interesa aprender sobre diferentes culturas, idiomas, y países, este es el grupo para usted! Hablamos de culturas mundiales. Los temas incluyen la comida, la ropa, las fiestas, los sitios famosos, y más. Todos son bienvenidos. Esta sesión se realiza en español. FACILITADORA(S): : Irene Williams
EDT: Member Spotlight
Come join a fellow friend with aphasia, James Farrell, as he shares his inspirational aphasia story and the lessons he has learned along this aphasia journey. You won’t want to miss this motivational session! FACILITATOR(S): Katie Strong
EDT: Beatles Fan Club
Come Together and Twist and Shout to the Fab 4! Join us from all Across The Universe as we listen to music, share our favorite Beatles songs, and learn something fun about the greatest band of all time! We can Let It Be one of the best sessions on Virtual Connections! Help! us to have some…
EDT: Supported Small Talk: Pets
***This session is designed for members who need extra communication support. Mini Chat sessions will only be 30 minutes in length.*** Join this session to share about your pets. We will introduce our pets and share pictures. We hope to see you there! FACILTIATOR(S): Teresa Thompson
EDT: Goal Setting for the New Year
Living with aphasia can be incredibly challenging. Let's set some goals to have more aphasia success in 2024! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Veterans Hangout
***This session is for military veterans only.*** Join Veteran Joe to have an open discussion and introduce new members. Share with the group and get to know other Veterans with Aphasia. FACILITATOR(S): Joseph Martin
EDT: The One-Handed Craft Group
Do you enjoy painting, ceramics, knitting, quilting, and more? Is it something you are trying to pick-up again after your aphasia, or maybe a new hobby you want to explore? Concerned about only having one-hand to use? Then come join this fun, creative group where we will share current projects, as well as tips and…
EDT: Open Chat
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow-Richards
EDT: Young Survivors Under 40
***This session is for YOUNG SURVIVORS, AGES 19-40 ONLY.*** Join other young people with aphasia for fun group activities and lots of conversation! Members will be encouraged to help guide the topic of conversation and engage with each other. FACILITATOR(S): Ann Blau
EDT: Open Chat
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow- Richards
EDT: Holiday Gathering
Ho, Ho, Ho! Merry Christmas! Join this session to celebrate the holiday with your aphasia family. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow-Richards
EDT: Aphasia 101
Aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria...what does that all mean??? Interested in learning more about the brain, strokes, and aphasia? Join this session hosted by a speech therapist to learn more! Bring your questions! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Couples Open Chat
***This session is for couples- both the person with aphasia and partner should be in attendance.*** Calling all couples! Has your relationship changed since aphasia moved in? Is your communication different now? Has your connection and intimacy been impacted? Do you miss who you used to be? If you answered "yes" to any of these…
EDT: Speaking Poetry
Writing poetry after aphasia can be very therapeutic! Join speech therapist Dr. Bri and Mark for this session all about expressing yourself and your aphasia journey through poetry. Participants will be given writing assignments and encouraged to share their poetry with the group. Those interested in learning how to write poetry are welcome to join us…
EDT: Veterans Hangout
***This session is for military veterans only.*** Join Veteran Joe to have an open discussion and introduce new members. Share with the group and get to know other Veterans with Aphasia. FACILITATOR(S): Joseph Martin
EDT: Speaking in Stride: An Aphasia Running Club
Share running stories and photos, encourage each other, and learn the many benefits of running. All running levels welcome- including those who haven’t started running yet but are just curious! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Fun with Conversations
Join in some fun conversation. I will pose some questions to help get us talking. Example: What celebrity would you like to meet? FACILITATOR(S): Barb Meyer
EDT: Providing Feedback about Virtual Connections
Let's look back on another year of Virtual Connections. How is it going? What improvements can we make? Join this session to provide feedback about our program! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Aphasia International Hangout
Virtual Connections is the only international aphasia support program of its kind. Something that makes VC unique is how we bring together people with aphasia from all over the world! Wherever you live in the world, join this session to connect with others living with aphasia! FACILITATOR(S): Sarah Gundy
EDT: Caregivers: New Year New You
***How care PARTners can plan for 2024.*** Join Abbe Simon SLP and integrative health coach. She will offer a discussion for care PARTners to create intentions for the new year. You will focus on your person with aphasia AND most importantly yourself. Bring your lunch or cup of coffee. FACILITATOR(S): Abbe Simon
EDT: Happy New Year, Virtual Connections!
3...2...1... HAPPY NEW YEAR! Let's bring in the new year together! In this session we'll celebrate wins from 2023, chat about hopes for 2024, and spend time together as an aphasia family. Pop the champagne, it's almost 2024! FACILITATOR: Allie Reed
EDT: Let’s Talk Story
In Hawaii, “talk story” is a Pidgin English term we use when talking with friends, sharing ideas and getting to know each other. Let’s sit back and relax with each other. Bring your favorite drink as we “slow down” and share time together. FACILITATOR(S): Brandi Merryman
EDT: WOMEN’S OPEN CHAT
***This session is for women only.*** Join us to practice casual conversation with other women with aphasia in small groups. If you struggle to get words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. Come and meet others with aphasia! FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow-Richards
EDT: Open Chat
Want to meet others with aphasia and practice your speech in a small group? These sessions give you a chance to meet others with aphasia from around the world. If you struggle to get the words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow- Richards
EDT: Happy New Year!
Let's celebrate New Year's 2024! We will reflect on 2023 and the moments we cherish and remember. (Bring pictures if you’d like!) We’ll share a toast (bring a cold drink) with our friends and chat about moving forward in 2024. It is a new year, a new beginning, and we will start it out with…
EDT: Communication Tools
There are SO many tools that people with aphasia can use to communicate! Communication boards, picture dictionaries, white boards, AAC devices, photo cards, apps, and MORE! Let's get together to chat about the tools you can use for communication success! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: MEN’S OPEN CHAT
***This session is FOR MEN ONLY.*** Join us to practice casual conversation with other men with aphasia in small groups. If you struggle to get words out, please bring whatever strategies you are using to support your communication. Come and meet others with aphasia! FACILITATOR(S): Carol Dow-Richards
EDT: Writing, Typing & Texting
Writing and texting are great ways to gather your thoughts and get your point across. Let’s practice our writing skills to improve communication. Get your pen and paper, keyboards or smartphones ready! FACILITATOR(S): Nundini Patel
EDT: Pathways VIP CLUB (CLOSED GROUP)
***This is a closed group*** This monthly team meeting is for the VC superstars who have completed all 8 of the Pathways Webinar Series. Want to be invited to this group? Join us for the next Pathways Series and complete all 8 webinars! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: What’s Your Word of the Year?
2024 is here! What would you like to focus on this year? Let's set a word of the year. This word will help to keep you focused and on track for your goals. Maybe your word is PRACTICE. Maybe your word is GRACE. Maybe your word is HOPE. Let's get together and chat in this…
EDT: CarePartners: Supporting PPA
***This group is for CarePartners or caregivers of people living with aphasia that is getting worse.*** Join Dr. Lea Kaploun and the Nova students to discuss life as a CarePartner to a loved one with PPA. While some difficulties are similar to those seen in people who have aphasia after a stroke, people facing worsening communication…
EDT: Share Your Aphasia Story
No two people with aphasia are exactly alike. In this open chat style session, you will be able to share your journey of being diagnosed with and living with aphasia, and be able to hear from others too. Join us! FACILITATOR(S): Allie Reed
EDT: Think Positive
Join Dr. Lea Kaploun and the Nova students for this weekly session all about finding the positive in each and every day of your aphasia journey. Living with aphasia can reveal your inner spark of strengths and talents you never thought you had. Come join our conversation, where we learn from each other, lean on each other, and share our gifts! FACILITATOR(S): Dr. Lea Kaploun
EDT: Veterans Hangout
***This session is for military veterans only.*** Join Veteran Joe to have an open discussion and introduce new members. Share with the group and get to know other Veterans with Aphasia. FACILITATOR(S): Joseph Martin
EDT: Mindfulness & Meditation
Relax and unwind with some meditation and mindful breathing techniques. Learn how to practice mindful breathing in your everyday routine. FACILITATOR(S): Michael Shemesh
EDT: 起傾吓偈 (廣東話) 
EDT: 起聊聊天（普通话）