CARY, N.C. – Earlier this week, the family of actor Bruce Willis announced he is stepping away from his career at the age of 67, after being diagnosed with aphasia.

What You Need To Know

  • Bruce Willis is stepping away from acting, due to a diagnosis of aphasia, according to his family

  • Aphasia is a language disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate

  • Triangle Aphasia Project Unlimited provides disability services and support in Cary

Aphasia is a language disorder that affects people’s ability to understand and communicate. It can be caused by a stroke, head injury, brain tumor or a disease.

Maura English Silverman, the founder and director of clinical services at the Triangle Aphasia Project, explained that aphasia does not impact intellect or memory.

“Our hearts go out to the Willis family,” English Silverman said. “It’s really important to get the word out to normalize it and really explain what it means.”

“The one thing we know about aphasia is that it impacts not just language, but impacts the person, their family, all their social connections,” she said.

The National Aphasia Association estimates 2 million Americans are affected by the illness.

English Silverman says it is possible to improve with the condition, depending on what the cause of the injury was.

“We've learned so much about neuroplasticity, its practice, engagement, connection, communication, that they absolutely can improve,” English Silverman said. “With a progressive disease that accompanies aphasia, then as the disease itself progresses, then they may not show that improvement.”

She recommends allowing for tools, strategies and trainings to help people live successfully with aphasia.

To learn more about resources offered at Triangle Aphasia Project Unlimited, click here.