On the tip of my tongue - talking about Aphasia – Details, episodes & analysis
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On the tip of my tongue - talking about Aphasia
Jonathan Hirons and Rob Edwards
Frequency: 1 episode/22d. Total Eps: 36
Jonathan Hirons's journey following his stroke and diagnosis of aphasia is both inspiring and informative. Here’s a summary of his experience and insights about aphasia:
Jonathan's Experience with Aphasia
1. Initial Incident:
In January 2019, while in a business meeting, Jonathan began to feel strange and soon realized he could not communicate effectively. His colleagues quickly called for medical help.
2. Medical Emergency:
He was rushed to University College Hospital, where scans revealed he had suffered a stroke due to a bleed on the brain. He spent five nights in the hospital and was diagnosed with aphasia.
3. Impact on Daily Life:
- Jonathan struggled with basic tasks such as speaking, reading, and writing.
- He had memory issues, recalling only his postcode but not his full address or other personal information.
- He faced challenges in understanding spoken language but could still sign his name.
4. Support from Family:
His wife, Ann, played a crucial role in his recovery:
- She encouraged him to read aloud daily and used flashcards to aid in word recognition and writing.
- This early intervention was vital for his rehabilitation.
5. Progress Through Therapy:
With the help of speech therapy, Jonathan made significant improvements:
- He regained much of his ability to read and write, although he still experiences difficulties, especially when tired.
6. Advocacy and Awareness:
- Jonathan has turned his experiences into a creative outlet by producing films, including "On the Tip of My Tongue" and "What is Aphasia?" These films aim to educate others about aphasia and its challenges.
- He actively shares his story to raise awareness about aphasia as a hidden disability and the ongoing need for support beyond initial rehabilitation.
Understanding Aphasia
Aphasia is a language disorder that affects communication abilities, including:
- Speaking: Difficulty in forming words or sentences.
- Understanding: Challenges in comprehending spoken or written language.
- Reading and Writing: Problems with reading text or writing coherently.
Key Takeaways
- Aphasia is often a result of brain damage, commonly from strokes, and can significantly impact daily life.
- Early intervention and support are crucial for recovery.
- Awareness and education about aphasia can help reduce stigma and improve support for those affected.
Jonathan's story highlights the resilience of individuals facing such challenges and the importance of community support in their recovery journey.
Copyright © 2025 Jonathan Hirons/Buffalo Lounge Studios All Rights Reserved.
This film/video/podcast is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or transmission of this material is prohibited.
For permissions or inquiries, please contact hello@buffalolounge.co.uk
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See all- https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
57 shares
- https://www.bas.org.uk
56 shares
- http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
29 shares
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See allScore global : 48%
Publication history
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AI and Aphasia: Overcoming Communication Barriers - S3 Ep 8 with Jez Hodgkinson
Season 3 · Episode 8
mercredi 22 octobre 2025 • Duration 27:26
AI and Aphasia: Overcoming Communication Barriers
In this episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue' podcast, Jez shares his personal journey with Aphasia following a severe stroke in 2016. He discusses the challenges he faced in communicating and how he overcame them by starting a local Aphasia support group during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jez also delves into his long-standing interest in AI, dating back to the 1980s, and explains how AI has significantly advanced in recent years. He introduces an AI-powered app he developed to assist Aphasia sufferers in recalling words more easily. The conversation highlights the potential of AI to support individuals with communication difficulties while noting the broader implications of AI technology in society.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
00:15 Overcoming Aphasia: Personal Journey
01:28 Community Involvement and Support Groups
03:17 Introduction to AI and Early Experiences
05:14 Developing an AI App for Aphasia
15:41 Practical Uses of AI in Daily Life
22:27 Challenges and Future of AI
25:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Say Aphasia Group Winchester and Southampton
https://www.sayaphasia.org/winchester
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
On the tip of my tongue Series 3 Episode 7 - "Therapy Notes: Elizabeth Nightingale"
Season 3 · Episode 7
mercredi 15 octobre 2025 • Duration 22:20
Transformative Power of Music Therapy with Elizabeth Nightingale
In this podcast episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue,' hosts Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons are joined by Elizabeth Nightingale, a neurological music therapist. The discussion delves into the impactful role of music therapy across various fields, including stroke recovery, pediatrics, and palliative care. Elizabeth shares insights into the innovative programs at Chilton Music Therapy, which blend music with community outreach and online learning. The conversation also covers the specifics of music therapy for Aphasia patients, highlighting the cognitive and emotional benefits, the development of new neural pathways, and the creation of supportive communities. The episode emphasizes the nationwide accessibility of these services through online platforms, making therapeutic music interventions available even in remote and under-served areas.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:54 Meet the Hosts and the Topic of Aphasia
01:49 Welcoming Elizabeth Nightingale
02:23 Overview of Chiltern Music Therapy
03:57 Impact of Music Therapy on Various Conditions
05:22 The Science Behind Music Therapy
07:23 Online Aphasia Music Therapy Groups
09:13 Access and Participation Details
18:23 Promoting the Online Groups
21:24 Concluding Remarks and Resources
For more info about Chiltern and Aphasia
https://www.chilternmusictherapy.co.uk/stories/use-your-voice-aphasia
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Brain Injury and Returning to Work - Tamsin Keyes of Headway
Season 2 · Episode 9
mardi 11 mars 2025 • Duration 27:48
Understanding Acquired Brain Injuries: Challenges and Support Systems plus Returning to Work
In this episode, Jonathan interviews Tamsin Keyes, the Publications and Research Manager at HEADWAY, the Brain Injury Association. Tamsin provides an in-depth explanation of what constitutes a brain injury, ranging from traumatic incidents to medical complications like strokes and aneurysms. She also outlines the difficulties individuals face when returning to work post-injury, including cognitive challenges and workplace accommodations. The discussion highlights the hidden nature of brain injuries and the importance of awareness, support, and legal rights under the Equality Act. Tamsin also shares resources and services provided by HEADWAY, including their helpline, local support groups, and vocational rehabilitation options. The episode aims to raise awareness and offer practical advice for individuals affected by brain injuries and their families.
00:00 Introduction to HEADWAY and Brain Injury
00:28 Understanding Brain Injuries
02:50 Challenges of Returning to Work
08:14 Support Systems for Employment
14:37 HEADWAY's Services and Support
23:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
www.gov.uk/government/collections/disability-confident-campaign
www.jobcentreguide.co.uk/about-disability-employment-advisors
www.gov.uk/guidance/equality-act-2010-guidance
www.vrassociationuk.com/resources-for-individuals
www.ncvo.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteering-opportunities
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Bring on the nouns - Graham Hall's take on Aphasia
Season 2 · Episode 8
dimanche 23 février 2025 • Duration 33:53
Overcoming Aphasia: The Journey of Graham Hall
In this episode of 'On the Tip of My Tongue,' hosts Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons discuss aphasia with Graham Hall, an orchestral percussionist who suffered a stroke a decade ago. Graham shares his experiences dealing with aphasia, its impact on his career, and the challenges of regaining his speech and musical abilities. Despite losing the joy in playing music, Graham found fulfilment in music arrangement and preparation. The discussion touches on brain injury recovery, neuroplasticity, and the importance of continuous practice. Graham's story aims to raise awareness about aphasia and encourages support for individuals with brain injuries.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Story
00:34 Welcome to the Podcast
00:52 Understanding Aphasia
01:45 Graham Hall's Stroke Experience
03:20 Challenges in Music Post-Stroke
06:00 Reconnecting with Music
10:07 Living with Aphasia
14:31 Raising Awareness and Support
27:58 The Role of Family and Friends
29:55 Creative Coping Mechanisms
33:06 Conclusion and Resources
Before my stroke (2014) I used parody to comment/mock the situation in my musical life.
So I've been using that to describe my new life with aphasia. The lyrics are "contrafactum" (the substitution of text for another without change to the music) and comment on how I cope with brain damage and aphasia. The irony is that despite having musical anhedonia I'm still a musician!
https://grahamhall.bandcamp.com
Amongst other books , Graham recommends Musicophilia
[ https://www.oliversacks.com/oliver-sacks-books/musicophilia-oliver-sacks/]
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Overcoming Aphasia - Nigel Cheffers-Heard and Paula Fernley
Season 2 · Episode 7
mardi 4 février 2025 • Duration 37:41
Surviving Stroke and Navigating Aphasia: Nigel's Story
This podcast episode titled 'On the Tip of My Tongue' features Rob Edwards and Jonathan Hirons discussing aphasia, a language impairment often caused by a stroke or brain injury. They interview Paula Fearnley and Nigel Cheffers-Heard to hear Nigel's journey of recovering from a stroke that resulted in aphasia. Paula shares her challenges as a caregiver, their struggles with the healthcare system, and Nigel's progress over six years. The episode explores the social and occupational difficulties faced by aphasia patients and highlights the importance of community support, exercise, and persistence in recovery. It concludes by addressing the need for better workplace integration for those affected by aphasia.
00:00 A Shocking Turn of Events
00:29 Introduction to the Podcast
00:47 Understanding Aphasia
01:25 Nigel's Stroke Journey
04:07 The Struggle for Diagnosis
07:42 Recovery and Rehabilitation
10:57 Challenges in Daily Life
25:16 Returning to Work
31:58 Supporting Stroke Survivors
36:57 Conclusion and Resources
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Emma Rich: Battling Aphasia and Advocating for Neuro Rehab
Season 2 · Episode 6
jeudi 9 janvier 2025 • Duration 35:23
Emma Rich: Battling Aphasia and Advocating for Neuro Rehab
In this episode, Emma Rich, Charity Coordinator at Say Aphasia, shares her harrowing journey with severe brain injury and subsequent aphasia. She recounts her critical medical emergency, rehabilitation experiences, and the crucial role of neuroplasticity in her recovery. Emma discusses the importance of speech therapy, community support groups, and the uneven access to rehabilitation services. Advocating for better support and employment opportunities for brain injury and stroke survivors, Emma emphasizes the need for education, hope, and inclusive societal attitudes toward individuals with neurological conditions.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:16 Emma's Brain Hemorrhage Experience
01:51 Recovery Journey Begins
03:45 Rehabilitation and Neuroplasticity
05:58 Challenges and Support Systems
10:21 Involvement with Say Aphasia
18:43 Employment and Inclusivity
29:34 Hope and Rehabilitation
31:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Say Aphasia website: https://www.sayaphasia.org
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Hidden Voices: Reflections on Aphasia and Care 2024 Round up
mercredi 1 janvier 2025 • Duration 03:27
Overcoming Aphasia and the Importance of Carers
In this episode, the host reflects on past events and highlights key themes such as surviving a critical health incident in Las Vegas, the significant role of communication in recovery from strokes, and the challenges and strategies for living with aphasia. The episode also emphasizes the importance of unpaid carers, their economic contribution, and the need for perseverance in finding effective communication methods post-injury. The narrative draws an analogy to living in a foreign country to convey the experience of aphasia, highlighting its often hidden nature and the frustration of not being recognized for having a serious condition.
00:00 Reflecting on Past Episodes
00:10 A Harrowing Experience in Las Vegas
00:40 The Importance of Communication Post-Stroke
00:52 Meet Pete Cody: A Story of Resilience
01:05 Tips for a Healthy Brain
01:31 The Role and Impact of Unpaid Carers
02:07 Understanding Aphasia: A Hidden Disability
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Lifting the Fog: Colin Lyall's Journey with Aphasia
Season 2 · Episode 5
lundi 16 décembre 2024 • Duration 33:10
Journey Through Aphasia: An Interview with Colin Lyle
In this episode of the On the Tip of My Tongue podcast, Colin Lyle, founder of the Say Aphasia charity, shares his powerful journey from experiencing a stroke and developing aphasia to actively supporting others with the condition. Colin talks about his stressful lifestyle that led to his stroke, the challenges he faced during recovery, and his efforts in starting the Say Aphasia charity. The episode covers the importance of speech and language therapy, the challenges of living with aphasia, and the mission to raise awareness and support for those affected. Colin’s inspiring story highlights the significance of community and peer support in navigating life with aphasia.
00:00 Introduction to Aphasia
02:22 Colin's Stroke and Initial Challenges
03:45 Speech and Language Therapy Journey
07:47 Founding Say Aphasia Charity
12:04 Expanding the Charity and Overcoming Hurdles
23:09 Future Plans and Reflections
31:33 Conclusion and Resources
Say Aphasia
The Say Aphasia Charity provides supportive drop-in groups for people with aphasia in the UK. It is run by people with aphasia for people with aphasia.
Aphasia is not a well known condition and so people with this communication disability can feel alone and isolated from their community.
Our aim is to provide continuous support in a social environment with people who are experiencing similar life changes.
Our charity makes a difference to people living with aphasia by:
- Offering companionship and support
- Helping to adjust to living with aphasia.
- Meeting people who are experiencing a similar life change.
- Making new life long friends.
- Gaining tips and advice from others with aphasia.
- Gaining confidence to socialise and communicate as best they can.
- Re-gaining independence as much as they can.
- Helping to reduce loneliness.
- Providing support in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
- Offering art class and singing class as a therapeutic way to relax and express themselves.
#SayAphasia
https://www.sayaphasia.org
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
Clip of On the tip of my tongue Series 2 Episode 3 - Dr Suzanne Beeke
jeudi 12 décembre 2024 • Duration 00:38
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
On the tip of my tongue Series 2 Episode 5 - Colin Lyall founder of Say Aphasia
jeudi 12 décembre 2024 • Duration 00:22
Rebuilding Lives After Stroke: Colin Lyle's Journey with Aphasia
In this episode of the Tip of My Tongue podcast, Colin Lyle, founder of the Say Aphasia charity, discusses his personal journey with aphasia following a stroke 11 years ago. Colin shares details about his former stressful career, his initial denial about the severity of his condition, and the extensive speech and language therapy that aided his recovery. He explains the challenges he faced, including the realization that he could no longer continue his previous work. Colin also talks about the founding of Say Aphasia, the expansion of the charity, and the group's mission to support people with aphasia. He touches on the importance of peer support groups, the impact of stress on health, and the future direction of his charity. Colin highlights the need for more awareness and support for aphasia, revealing that many people still lack access to necessary speech and language therapy.
00:00 Introduction to Aphasia and Colin's Journey
02:22 Colin's Stroke and Initial Recovery
03:26 Challenges and Realizations Post-Stroke
07:47 Founding Say Aphasia Charity
11:50 Expanding the Charity and Overcoming Obstacles
23:09 Future Plans and Reflections
31:33 Conclusion and Resources
#SayAphasia
https://www.sayaphasia.org
Support the show: Donate Now
This podcast is funded by https://www.bas.org.uk
To watch Jonathan’s film: https://tipofmytonguefilm.com
http://x.com/buffaloloungeuk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanhirons/
https://www.instagram.com/buffalolounge
The Tavistock Trust for Aphasia website
http://aphasiatavistocktrust.org
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