By Da’ Ron Frost
Opinion Editor
Speaking fluently comes naturally for many people, but a small percentage of the world struggles with their speech.
Although not often addressed, stuttering is an issue that affects many people.
Including me.
More than 70 million people, about 1 percent of the global population, and 3 million people in the United States, stutter, according to the Stuttering Foundation.
I am an aspiring sports journalist. Although it is uncommon for someone with a speech impediment to chase a communications career, this is my passion.
Throughout my childhood, I didn’t think this was a career option for me because of my speech insecurities.
It was a lonely feeling being part of that 1 percent of the world who stutters. I felt judged every time I stuttered a word. It caused me to experience anxiety and depression.
It was impossible to hide my speech impediment from the world since I could not control it, so I hid myself. I could not control my stutter, but at the time my stutter controlled my life.
The time eventually came when I knew I had to change my methods. I began learning about myself, gaining confidence as I stopped being ashamed of who I am.
I learned to relax when I speak. My stutter has improved. I learned how to face my challenges head on.
Stuttering has been the biggest test life has given me, but I am determined to not let it overshadow my talents.
Becoming a sports journalist would show how far I have come from my childhood. Journalism was always an intriguing career for me, but I did not think it was possible because of my speech impediment. Now I know it will not get in the way.
I am now driven to pursue this career, not for anyone’s approval, but for myself. I am not defined by my stutter, but it has made me who I am.
I would like my journey of self-acceptance to act as an example for those with the same problem. I want them to know their stutter should not limit them, but allow them to take on the challenges of which they are faced.
