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From: Pamela Mertz
Date: 09 Oct 2008
Time: 14:24:48 -0500
Remote Name: 163.153.6.145
Heather, thanks for the kind thoughts. I would definitely covert stutterers to join a support group, either at the local college or an NSA chapter. Being covert means you keep everything hidden due to the shame one feels. Coming together with others who stutter, and just realizing their are others just like you, is very powerful and makes a big difference. i will share this: the first meeting I went to, I didn't say a word, and I got very overwhelmed and cried. It was becasue of how powerful it felt for me to learn I was not alone. The second meeting, I passed and said nothing, and again got very emotional and made a move like I was going to bolt. Someone sitting next to me put her hand on my knee - she didn't say a word, just that show of support was huge to me. By the third meeting, I spoke, told people my name and why I was there. After that, I felt that sense of belonging I was looking for, and cautioulsy began to share. I still remember the time a guy in group told me, "Congratulations - I just heard you stutter for the first time". Those few words were so accepting and freeing. Every person who stuttters - whether covert or overt- should experience the wonders of group support. Pam