Lourdes Offers Swallowing Disorders Support Group

Stroke, surgery and cancer are only a few of the conditions that can impact a person’s ability to swallow. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can cause a person to feel low self-esteem, depressed, and socially challenged, according to the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders.

To help those suffering cope with the emotional, physical and social limitations of dysphagia, Susan M. Pattay, M.S.,CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist with Lourdes Health System and St. Francis Medical Center, will lead a free monthly dysphagia support group at LourdesCare at Cherry Hill, 1 Brace Road in Cherry Hill. Meetings will be held the last Wednesday of each month, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., in the Cardiology Conference Room. The next meeting is Wednesday, June 28.

“Our support group brings together people facing similar issues around dysphagia,” said Pattay. “Members have the opportunity to share stories, experiences, and seek out practical advice. It’s a valuable resource for patients, family members, caregivers and anyone impacted by this condition.”

Pattay says that the overall purpose of the group meetings is to offer members a sense of empowerment and control. “Members should have a safe place to speak openly and honestly about their feelings. Sharing information about treatment and coping options can be beneficial when dealing with dysphagia.”

Registration for the monthly support group is preferred but not required. To register, or for more information, contact Susan Pattay at susan.pattay@lourdesnet.org, or call 856-693-4366. For more information about the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders, visit http://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com.