06/09/2026
Laura Horton is a self-advocate who serves on the Mayors Council on Disabilities and a National Aphasia Association Ambassador. Laura was asked to do the National Aphasia Awareness Month in June in the Chattanooga area. And luckily Mayor Tim Kelly obliged and he signed the Proclamation for June.
Aphasia is a language disorder caused by stroke, brain injury, or neurological disease. It affects a person’s ability to speak, understand language, read, or write — while intelligence remains intact. 2-4 million people in the United States live with aphasia, including many residents of Chattanooga.
National Aphasia Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to:
Increase public understanding of aphasia
Reduce stigma and isolation
Promote communication access and inclusion
On behalf of individuals with aphasia, their families, and professionals who support them, I respectfully ask for your consideration of this request. As one of more than 2-4 million people who is affected by aphasia, I understand the importance of raising awareness about the condition.
We are so excited now to have a month to will raise awareness and reduce stigma. Thanks again Mayor Tim Kelly, Mayors Council on Disabilities, and National Aphasia Association.