My earliest memory of stuttering dates back to when I was about 8 years old, struggling with words, especially at the beginning of a conversation or when responding to someone.

Reflecting on my journey, I have come to understand the importance of educating parents and teachers on how to interact with children who stutter. Early awareness and intervention are essential in reducing the long-term effects of stuttering on a child's life.

For a long time, I struggled with questions like, "Why do I speak this way?" "Why can't I talk like others?" I didn't even know what my condition was called. The day I found out it was called stuttering was a turning point; it felt like a weight was lifted. Realizing I wasn't alone and that many others spoke like me was freeing. As I researched more, I gradually learned to manage and control my stuttering, changing my perspective completely.

If I could talk to my younger self, I would say, "Forgive me for being so hard on you."

We need to promote a world that recognizes speech isn't easy for everyone. Raising awareness and understanding about stuttering helps people see the different ways individuals communicate.

A phrase that resonates with me is, "If you stutter, you're in good company." Knowing that even celebrities who stutter have overcome their challenges offers hope and strength. If they can triumph over what once seemed an insurmountable hurdle, then so can anyone else. This realization brings comfort and a sense of belonging to a broader, understanding community.