Last year, after I turned 21, I suddenly developed a stutter. It started unexpectedly, and at first, I thought I was just stumbling over my words, but it continued. My doctor was surprised, and the local hospital even thought I might have had a stroke since I had never stuttered before.

Numerous tests led a neurologist to find no brain anomalies that could explain the stutter and express optimism for its resolution. However, the medical support I received was limited, as my stutter had no apparent injury-related cause. This led to a challenging year out of work, filled with emotional turmoil—tears, shock, confusion, and isolation. But, as the saying goes, "Alhamdulillah," I've come to accept that stuttering doesn't define my worth.

Some days, I feel like my pre-stutter self, while on other days, it's harder. Still, this has become part of who I am, and that's okay. I haven't joined any support groups or met others who stutter, but The Stutter Community's online presence has been a lifeline during my darkest times, reminding me I'm not alone and that I can live my life without shame.

As a teaching assistant, I have days when speaking is especially tough, but I strive to stay strong and confident for my students. I dream of visiting the UAE to witness the incredible support for people who stutter. ​

I hope my story offers hope and reminds others that you're never truly alone, even when it feels like it. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes our biggest challenges turn into unexpected blessings. I often reflect on this verse from the Quran:

“رَبِّ اشْرَحْ لِي صَدْرِي وَيَسِّرْ لِي أَمْرِي وَاحْلُلْ عُقْدَةً مِّن لِّسَانِي يَفْقَهُوا قَوْلِي”

“My Lord, expand for me my breast [with assurance] And ease for me my task And untie the knot from my tongue That they may understand my speech.” (Quran, 20:25-28) – a reminder of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.