“My daughter Christina experienced a massive stroke at age 33 as the result of a congenital condition.  The neurosurgeon’s prognosis was bleak and included the prediction that she would never speak again.  This was especially devastating to all of us. Christina’s profession revolved around speaking and writing.  Christina did not speak at all the first month after her stroke.  We could see her frustration growing and her confidence fading.  When she began intensive speech therapy with Josie we soon saw her attitude start to change from hopelessness to believing she could regain the ability to speak so others could understand.

Josie’s skill and training helped Christina to begin to articulate her thoughts and feelings into words.  But most importantly, the friendship and warmth she extended was the priceless element that gave Christina confidence.  This confidence meant she tried to say more words and express herself using the vocabulary one would expect from someone whose career over 10 years had been crafting communications for individuals and corporations.

Josie’s ability to connect is what makes her stand out.  Christina saw several speech therapists while in the hospital after the stroke. However, the genuine relationship she forged with Christina was transformative.  Christina’s unbelievable progress is due in large part to the quality of the therapy Josie provided and how she motivated and encouraged Christina.  We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have had Josie on Christina’s recovery team.  I know she will continue to touch lives with her special gift.”

PAMELA