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From: Anita
Date: 16 Oct 2006
Time: 15:28:25 -0500
Remote Name: 81.228.218.44
Hi Elizabeth You asked: "how do you think most PWS think of stuttering - as a disability or a difference in communication? " I cannot tell you how other PWS think of stuttering. Use this forum and support groups, as well as surveys etc to get answers to that question. To answer this would be wild guess. You're right in thinking your friend might still stutter, but you don't notice it anymore. This is a common phenomenon. Most people who know us see stuttering as a part of us and it would rather surprise them if we suddenly would stop. Just like one day coming to work without glasses. She might also have recovered from her (worst) stuttering. Or she is hiding it. But far too often it's US who hear it the most. For some every stuttering word is a failure. A shameful thing to do. Just as some people simply cannot accept they have to wear glasses. But would you rather walk into a door than to put on your glasses? Her being shy might not have anything to do with you. Telling her there's nothing to be ashamed of might work both ways. She might suddenly realize you notice, which makes you another unsafe human being, or she might be happy and relax. This is a very thin line. Maybe the best of both worlds might be to be like you use to be and maybe in situations where she is avoiding to bring up the subject by asking her if her stutter bothers her. Or bring up something that bothers you and wait and see if she brings it up. Or tell her you read something abut people who stutter who... and if that goes for her too. Try to imagine how you would feel being in her shoes, or someone commenting something that is a problem for you. But note that her stutter might be a bigger problem to you than it is to her, or completely the contrary. You know her the best. I guess I'm not much of a help here, but I'm very thankful for your willingness to help and for your concerns. You are a true friend. Good luck! Anita