O Word That I Lack! Silence, Speech, and Communicative Bodies in the Rehabilitation (and Redemption) of Stroke Patients with Expressive Aphasia

Abstract

This article illustrates how the existential crisis and rehabilitation trajectory of stroke survivors with expressive aphasia corresponds to potential movement from one narrative type to another. Moreover, theologies of disability and rehabilitation can contribute to a fuller awareness and deeper appreciation of patient-centered care in clinical relationships characterized by different understandings of communion, and by Jesus' risen body as disabled. Finally, opportunities exist for further exploration and discovery in light of potential insights to be gained from broader theological perspectives and interreligious dialogue focused on topics of intersubjectivity, communion, and solidarity.

KEYWORDS:

• alterity
• autonomy
• communion
• intersubjectivity
• narrative
• ethics
• listening