Singing Through Stroke
Hi, I’m Michael and I’m a stroke survivor.
One of the first casualties of stroke is speech. From slurring like you’re drunk, to mixing up word order so sentences don’t make sense, through to not being able to speak at all — it can feel like the aliens have taken over your head.
Relearning to speak is the next challenge. For most of us, the words are there, but between apraxia and aphasia, nothing comes out right. It’s an ongoing, often frustrating process. I’m three and a half years post-stroke, and people still think I’m French. (If only I were single!)
The Power of Singing
Since time began, humans have loved to sing. And thanks to the Japanese, karaoke has turned singing into an art form - giving everyone a chance to be Taylor Swift or Frank Sinatra for a night.
For people with brain injuries, including stroke survivors, singing has genuine therapeutic value. It engages both hemispheres of the brain, improves rhythm and timing, helps with breathing control, and boosts confidence. It also encourages automaticity - the ability to say things without overthinking - which is essential for speech recovery.
And, perhaps most importantly, it’s good fun.
Stroke Karaoke Night
Recently, our friends - also stroke survivors - came to house-sit our beloved German Shepherd, Mori, while we were away for a few days. This time, though, they had an unusual request: could they host a stroke karaoke night in our backyard?
We didn’t mind, of course. They organised six or so fellow survivors, set up a stage with a music stand and microphone, lit a fire, and even added laser lights bouncing off the wall. Mori, naturally, joined in with backup vocals.
Finding Joy in Recovery
The night was a roaring success. From all reports, there was laughter, singing, and a few emotional moments as voices - some still finding their rhythm - filled the night air.
We were sorry to miss it, but based on the feedback, we’ll definitely be hosting another karaoke night soon. Because sometimes, healing isn’t found in therapy rooms - it’s found in song, in laughter, and in the courage to keep finding your voice.