Motion by Hahn seeks to raise awareness of disease affecting 2 million Americans that limits ability to communicate

June 9, 2026

Los Angeles, CA – Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors proclaimed June 2026 as National Aphasia Awareness Month in Los Angeles County, raising awareness about the acquired communication disorder that affects a person’s ability to speak, understand language, read, or write, and that often occurs after a stroke. It’s estimated that more than two million Americans are currently living with aphasia, and approximately 180,000 people acquire it each year.

“Aphasia is devastating because it robs people of their ability to communicate with the world around them, but the lack of awareness about this disease makes living with it even more excruciating for those with aphasia and for those who love and care for them,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn, who introduced the motion to proclaim National Aphasia Awareness Month. “Our hope is that as more and more people—employers, friends, neighbors, and first responders, among others—know about it, it will be easier for people with aphasia to get the support they need and deserve.”

Aphasia most commonly occurs following a stroke or traumatic brain injury and can also result from neurodegenerative diseases. While it does not impact it does not impact intelligence, the disease limits a person’s ability to effectively communicate. Despite more than two million estimated cases in the United States, awareness remains low. That lack of awareness can delay diagnosis, reduce access to services, and create unnecessary barriers for people attempting to communicate in healthcare settings, workplaces, schools, and public spaces.

Hahn’s effort to increase public awareness began when her office was contacted by Justin Chlowitz who together with his father Roger the co host and creator of When Words Don’t Come Easy, a podcast and YouTube channel that discusses life after stroke and aphasia. Roger is a stroke survivor living with aphasia himself.

In a statement on the Board’s proclamation, Justin and Roger wrote: “When Words Don’t Come Easy was created to raise awareness of aphasia and help people living with communication challenges, along with their families, feel less alone. We are grateful to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for recognizing National Aphasia Awareness Month and helping bring greater visibility to a condition that affects millions of people and remains widely misunderstood. This proclamation is an important step toward increasing understanding, support, and inclusion for those living with aphasia.”

In addition to calling for greater awareness and understanding of aphasia, Hahn’s motion also recognized the contributions of speech-language pathologists, rehabilitation professionals, caregivers, advocates, and community organizations for their efforts to help people living with aphasia maintain communication, independence, and dignity.