Sisters, Sisters ... There Were Never Such Devoted Sisters

While looking through my wedding pictures I came across this one and struggled to keep my emotions in check.

My sister and I.  We share a close relationship.  Through the years we could stay up until all hours of the night talking about anything and everything ... as sisters tend to do.  When I moved to North Carolina we had our conversations via the phone.  It wasn't unusual for our calls to last an hour or two.  She is my older sister and my only sister.  We have a lot in common, but at the same time we couldn't be more different from each other if we tried.

When she had her stroke 2 years ago she was left with her right side paralyzed and aphasia.  When she had her stroke I knew nothing about aphasia.  I assumed that with a lot of speech therapy she would be able to communicate once again.  I thought she might be left with slurred speech, but I had no idea she might not be able to talk or read again.  Sadly as of today that is the case.   When I call her she is able to say "yes" and "no".  She always tries to ask me questions, but there are no words that are decipherable.  I do send letters as I know she enjoys receiving mail, but for the most part someone else has to read them to her.
I don't fully understand aphasia, but I often wonder if it is an even worse fate than being paralyzed.  Since she woke up in a hospital room 2 years ago and was told she had suffered a massive stroke she hasn't been able to discuss her feelings, her fears or ask questions.  When our Mom passed away she wasn't able to put her grief into words or writing. 
I once heard a man on NPR telling about his experience with aphasia.  He was recovering his speech to some extent, but said it was a bit like being in prison.  He knew what he wanted to say, but no matter how hard he tried he couldn't form the words.  I can't even imagine how difficult and frustrating that must be.

I don't know exactly why I'm putting this into a post except that some of you have asked about my sister and I haven't done an update in a while and I guess to be honest I really, really miss the girl talk my sister and I had.  I think most of you understand girl talk whether it be with your own sister or your best friend.

Next month I am planning to go visit my sister.  It will be wonderful to see her.  Communication is a bit easier face to face, but still challenging.  For now I hope and pray that I can be of help to her.