# Piet and Ellen: a full life, even when words are hard

Piet Dijkhuizen had a stroke ten years ago that left him with severe aphasia. He understands everything but cannot talk, read or write. With **Express Me** on his iPad, he can still share important family photos and moments, including receiving the Harry Moeskops Prize.

Together with his wife Ellen, Piet is raising awareness about aphasia and urging people to talk calmly and ask simple yes-or-no questions. Despite the losses, he still gives his life a ten out of ten, finding joy in small things and the company of people who understand.

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**Janet de Vos · Algemeen Dagblad**

Published 22 October 2025

Original source (ad.nl): https://www.ad.nl/woerden/praten-lukt-niet-meer-toch-geeft-piet-zijn-leven-een-10-ondanks-verdriet-genieten-we-van-mooie-dingen~a3daf645/