Not many people understand what a Speech Pathologist does. We often get mistaken or stereotyped as working only with children. Interestingly enough, movies which have portrayed Speech Pathologists, have not centered around children.
I have been googling and came across these five inspiring movies.
1. The Diving Bell & Butterfly – 2007
This is a true story of French Elle editor : Jean – Dominique Bauby, who suffered a stroke at age 43. He lost every movement in his body, except his left eye. Which means, he was wheelchair bound, and unable to move anything, including his mouth to make speech. One of his therapists included a Speech Pathologist, who taught him how to communicate by using eye blinking. It took time, but Claude used his newfound skill to write a book. This movie brought tears to my eyes and I have watched this one a few times!
2. Rocket Science – 2007
This is a story about a teenage boy who has a stutter. He is recruited to debate for a top school team by a female. These two develop a bond, and the rest is history. I have not seen this movie yet.
3. Regarding Henry – 1991
This movie stars Harrison Ford as the main character. He plays the role of an attorney who gets shot whilst in an convenience store, and his life is changed for ever.
4. The King’s Speech – 2010
I don’t think there is a single person who has not seen this movie, played by Colin Firth. The features the second son of King George V, who grew up with a debilitating stutter. His speech on 3rd September 1939, was a speech that he could not have made without the help of his Speech Therapist. I loved watching this movie. And for those who have watched this , no, I do not use marbles in mouth during treatment! I actually get asked this question all the time!
5. My Beautiful broken brain – 2014
This movie captures the epic journey of a Londoner who suffered a stroke in 2011, at the age of 34. She lost her ability to read, write, and speak coherently. This film covers her journey.
I would love to watch all of them so I can compare and decide on my favourite. For now, my favourite is Diving Bell and Butterfly.