UMMC Speech-Language Pathology

💙💚🧡 June is National Dysphagia Awareness Month 💙💚🧡

Did you know that swallowing is one of the most complex functions our bodies perform? It involves the coordinated work of muscles and nerves from the mouth to the stomach—and most of us do it hundreds of times each day without even thinking about it.

For individuals living with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), eating, drinking, and even taking medications can be challenging and sometimes unsafe. Dysphagia can affect people of all ages and may occur as a result of stroke, neurological conditions, cancer treatment, head and neck disorders, or developmental differences.

Speech-Language Pathologists play a vital role in evaluating and treating swallowing disorders, helping patients improve safety, nutrition, hydration, and quality of life.

This month, we join others across the country in raising awareness about dysphagia and the importance of early identification and intervention.

👉 What's a daily activity you couldn't imagine having to relearn?

Big congratulations to Kelsey Murray, PhD, CCC-SLP for completing UMMC's Group on Women in Medicine and Science (GWIMS) program! GWIMS is dedicated to supporting leadership development, career advancement, mentorship, and the success of women in academic medicine and science. We are proud of Dr Murray's commitment to professional growth and leadership, and we look forward to seeing the impact she continues to make for her patients, families, and colleagues. 👏🎉

Happy National SLP Day! We’re so thankful to do what we do each day—helping patients regain independence, discover new skills, and supporting families as they work toward meaningful goals. We’re honored to be part of these journeys and grateful for the opportunity to make a difference through connection, growth, and lifelong learning. 💙

Know a great SLP at UMMC? Tag her in the comments!

Happy National Speech and Language Pathologist Appreciation Day! Thank you for everything you do for our patients.

As we continue to celebrate National Speech and Hearing month, our favorite way to celebrate is sharing victories like this one!

Congratulations to Ethan, who recently graduated from speech therapy with SLP, Mrs Amy and graduate clinician, Ms Madelyn. We are so proud of all of your hard work!