I was recently asked to write a piece for an upcoming edition of Speaking Out, the BSA newsletter. Here it is:

Last September, I spent a long weekend in Durham at the BSA national conference. As a first time conference attendee, I went to it not knowing what to really expect. I signed up to go mostly because I’d heard from otherpeople who stammer (mostly through the internet) that going to a national conference was an experience they cherish and highly recommend. But I was still apprehensive. How many new people would I meet? How many times would I have to introduce myself? Whom would I talk to over the weekend? Would I have a good time? But I packed my bags, got on a train at Kings Cross and 3 hours later found myself checked in to a private room in Collingwood College, Durham University. 

It was Friday evening and people were just starting to wrap-up with dinner. I was met by Norbert who made sure I got a plate of hot (and very good) food that I ate, sharing awkward conversation with a few people I didn’t know. I finished up and headed down to the bar, still a little nervous. But the rest of the evening was exhilarating! Everyone wanted to say hello, strangers became friends;I loosened up and had a great time. We had to be told to leave because the bar was closing. 

Saturday was filled with workshops and presentations. Feeling much more comfortable in my surroundings, I picked the ones that sounded most interesting to me. I went in with an open mind, learned a few new things and experienced some great speakers, who just happened to be people who stammered. I got the opportunity to learn some singing techniques and even lay on a bed of nails! We were treated to a great lunch and an even better dinner, where I made more friends. Some after dinner activities had been planned for us that included some lovely folk music, daredevil acts by Bob Adams and finally a raffle. I was a lucky winner and walked away with a lovely painting of The King’s Speech. 

When I woke the next morning, I could barely believe it was Sunday already and very nearly time to head back to London. The day started with an incredible speech by Harry Dhillon, an advanced Toastmaster. Hearing him inspired me to join a club myself. Lunch (again, excellent) was followed by some closing remarks and an opportunity for the rest of us to get up in front of an audience and say a few words. I stood up and expressed my gratitude to everyone in attendance for an incredible 2 days. I came in not knowing what to expect, but left with many new friends and a feeling of pride at being a person who stammers.