TRENTON – To raise awareness about Aphasia Awareness Month, Governor Phil Murphy today made seven direct appointments to the Mike Adler Aphasia Task Force, charged with monitoring the prevalence of that disorder, which impairs a person’s ability to process language.  

“Aphasia is a challenge that too many of our fellow residents face,” said Governor Murphy. “I’m proud to appoint this distinguished group to help find solutions and provide support for our friends and neighbors who face this condition. I thank Senator Weinberg for her leadership in addressing this issue.”

“Mike Adler was a very dear friend,” said Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg. “And naming this task force in honor of his work was exceedingly appropriate. It is gratifying to finally see the task force fully appointed and ready to do the work on behalf of the thousands of people suffering from this tragic and debilitating disorder. Particularly at the start of June since this is National Aphasia Awareness Month.”

The Governor made the following direct appointments to the board:

• Chuck Berkowitz – (Glen Rock, Bergen)
• Dr. Martin Gizzi – (New York, New York)
• Linda M. Tucker Simpson – (Union, Union)
• Andrew Gomory – (Princeton, Mercer)
• Janice Dibling – (Manalapan, Monmouth)
• Dr. Mary Jo Santo Pietro – (Metuchen, Middlesex)
• Don Martone – (Chester, Morris) 

The Task Force, established in 2017, is charged with determining the unmet needs for persons with aphasia in New Jersey, and with facilitating the establishment of support groups. The board will present recommendations to the Governor and Legislature if additional actions are deemed necessary.