Doncaster Stammering Association meet American language students

Fifteen speech and language students from the University of Michigan and their professor Paul Cook spent the day at Darts arts centre meeting members of Doncaster Stammering Association.

Member John Atkins, of Scawthorpe, who has been a member of the DSA since 2014, ran the London marathon and raised over £1,000 for the group which supported him.

He said: “The emotional effects of stammering is low self-esteem, low confidence and feeling very isolated at times.

“You feel like you can’t communicate with people, even though you can. You close yourself off from the world as if in a bubble. It can be quite a lonely place at times.”

John alongside other members shared their personal journeys struggles through speeches, presentations and games.

Chairman Bob Adams, said: “ We are proud to host our American friends. They are having a taste of what we do in the self-help group. It’s not about not stammering or using a technique it’s about developing good communication skills.”

Trevor Bradley gave a passionate speech about the topic of self-compassion and how being a part of the DSA has changed his life.

He said: “The group has taught me that it’s okay to stammer, you’re in a safe environment.”

If you’re interested in joining the DSA contact Bob Adams on: 07944550540 or visit their www.facebook.com/DoncasterStammeringAssociation Facebook page.