We are pleased to announce that Jackie Davis–Zychowicz, Co-Founder of the DaZy Aphasia Centre, has been selected as this year’s Founder Award honoree. Jackie was working as a nurse and taking someone’s blood pressure when she had a stroke. During her therapy, she dreamed of starting an Aphasia Support Group in Toledo, OH.
That dream became a reality in June, 2007, when she and her co-founder, SLP Melodie Dregansky, started meeting in a small rented room. Her journey is very similar to that of Mike and Kathy Caputo, Founders of Voices of Hope for Aphasia. They, too, had a dream to start an Aphasia Center. They were very touched by Jackie’s story and wanted to honor the road that she has traveled.
Over the years, the DaZy Aphasia Centre has grown, and is now proud to be a part of the University of Toledo’s Speech and Language Clinic, where members contribute to the education and training of the students, too. Jackie says, “I am so proud for my family, friends and helping my journey successfully with Aphasia”.
Please join us in celebrating Jackie’s contribution to helping those with aphasia by fostering success in groups, helping caregivers, and educating the public. We’ll be honoring her at our Gala on Friday, September 30, from 5:00 – 7:30 pm. Details here.
Congratulations, Jackie! We’re so happy to be able to acknowledge all of your caring work and brave persistence!