In this film you will see and hear Norman and Nancy. Norman has had three strokes over a period of 9 years and has significant communication problems because of his aphasia. However he and Nancy do communicate by using pictures, gestures and their sense of humour. They also use a conversation support book.

Nancy:

Last year, up to last year er… we used to go up to Glenrothes pool and Norman swam with er…” “With the, what did you use?”

Norman: (Gestures using a snorkel and face mask)

Nancy:

“Snorkel, snorkel and the flippers.” “Got round that.”

Nancy:

“When did we last go to the beach holiday?” “I think it was the year before you took the stroke.”

Norman: (Nods in agreement)

Nancy:

“And who did we go with again?” “Can you remember?” “No, Tommy and Jeanette from the caravan.”

Norman:

“Aye”

Nancy:

“And we also went golfing holidays with them to Spain.”

Norman:

“Aye”

Nancy:

“Who won?”

Norman:

(Points to himself) “Me” (Laughing)

Nancy:

”Who kept losing the ball?”

Norman:

(Whispers “Tommy” Still laughing)

Nancy:

“Tommy” (More laughing)

Norman: (Points to the communication support book to the picture of the dentist)

Nancy:

“What’s this?” “Oh, the dentist.”

Norman: (Gestures- Puts his hand to hold the side of his cheek)

Nancy:

“Oh you’ve had terrible toothache, haven’t you?” “Three times, three weeks in a row we were at the dentist and unfortunately it’s up in Broughty Ferry, about an hour’s journey away.”
“And last week, two weeks ago now.” “You got the dentist on Thursday this week.”

Norman: Nods in agreement.

Nancy:

“And he took your root, not your root, your nerve out the last time.” “Your last visit.” “You’ve been OK this week haven’t you?”

Norman: Nods

Nancy:

“Last two weeks you’ve been in a lot of pain, but better this week.” “Good”