News
Our latest news & announcements
Scroll down and click to read our latest news including upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and important announcements.
Music Makes the World Go Round
Tucson-based singer/songwriter, Gabrielle Pietrangelo was joined by John Coinman when she performed at FOA this month. She won the prestigious John Lennon Summer Songwriting Contest in 2023 for her song “Summer Losers”.
Member Highlight: Peter Sadatmousavi
In 2018, Sadatmousavi had three back-to-back strokes which resulted in a diagnosis of aphasia.
Before his first stroke, Peter Sadatmousavi was an engineer for a mining company in San Jose, CA with an MBA from a German university.
Introducing Our New Executive Director & Board President
We’re excited to introduce some team changes here at Friends of Aphasia! Our new Executive Director and Board President bring care, experience, and a shared commitment to connection and communication. We’re excited for what’s ahead and so grateful to have them with us.
Community Partnerships
Friends of Aphasia (FOA) started its winter semester on January 12 and has partnered with Luke 5 Adventures and The Eduardo Aguirre Adaptive Cycling Center to provide outdoor activities for our members.
FOA Member Alan Elm hiking with Luke5 Adventures
A Look Back on 2025
We’re grateful for the joy and connection of 2025! Live music with local artists John Coinman, Will Clipman, and the Wayback Trio. Laughter Yoga with James Ogden. Walking in El Tour de Tucson and supporting Gabby Giffords’ ride. Bowling with the Stroke Resource Center, a community picnic, and holiday celebrations. Thank you for making it such a meaningful year—we look forward to what’s ahead!
Save the Date: Quilt Fiesta Sale
February 19-21, 2026
Members of the Tucson Quilters Guild have donated hundreds of one-of-a-kind, artistic, small quilts to this sale. 100% of the proceeds will benefit Friends of Aphasia and KXCI Community Radio.
Come to the 2026 Quilt Fiesta to see these quilts and make your purchase!
Quilt Fiesta: Feb 19-21, 2026
Pima County Fairgrounds 11300 S. Houghton Rd., Old Pueblo Hall $10 per day or $20 for 3-day pass; $8 parking
All proceeds from their small quilt sales will be split between FOA and KXCI. It’s a beautiful way to support our work!
Support Friends of Aphasia While You Shop!
You can support Friends of Aphasia just by doing your regular grocery shopping! When you link your Fry’s Food Stores loyalty card to our organization through the Fry’s Community Rewards Program, a portion of each purchase is donated to Friends of Aphasia — at no extra cost to you!
It’s an easy way to make a difference every time you shop.
Learn how to link your card here!
Thank you for turning your everyday shopping into meaningful support for our community!
Thank you, Volunteers!
Our incredible team of Friends of Aphasia volunteers gathered for a training and retreat on January 5, led by our Clinical Director, Clare McNamara. It was a meaningful time to reconnect, share ideas, and develop new strategies to support our group leaders and members. Our volunteers and staff are feeling refreshed and ready to welcome you back for the Winter 2026 semester on Monday, January 12th!
If you are interested in volunteering with us, reach out at hello@friendsofaphasia.com for more info, or fill out our Volunteer Interest Form.
Friends of Aphasia