A CHANCE meeting at a birthday party between a speech pathologist and a singer resulted in an innovative treatment for stroke sufferers at Fremantle Hospital.

Patients were treated to a barbershop concert by the Westcoast Chordsmen, including old favourites Sweet Adeline and My Wild Irish Rose.

Familiar tunes can be important in helping people recover speech after a stroke says the American Stroke Association; there are many examples of people left mute after a stroke who’ve suddenly burst into song.

The Westcoast Chordsmen have been around for 18 years and are always on the hunt for new members, so if you’ve got a good set of pipes, contact Ken Richens on 9447 6951.