By Chad Feehan
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
October 27, 2023 Edition
Mount Pearl City Council declared October 22nd as International Stuttering Awareness Day, welcoming Newfoundland and Labrador Stuttering Association founder Greg O’Grady to shed light on the day's significance.
“There is still little known about stuttering, said O’Grady. “This is a day for celebrating and to create awareness, understanding and acceptance of stuttering.”
Stuttering is a minimally understood disorder that affects roughly one per cent of the population and approximately 350,000 Canadians of all ages and backgrounds.
Various councillors shared their experiences with people in their lives who have stuttered, all remarking on how far stuttering awareness has come over the years.
“Never doubt the impact one person can have,” said Councillor Isabelle Fry. “This is something that everybody needs to know about.”
Councillor Chelsea Lane recalled a classmate from her school years who struggled with embarrassment over the condition due to a lack of conversation about stuttering in the community.
Lane, who is a teacher, also spoke of the positive impact that public awareness can have on children who stutter.
“The work you’re doing makes people feel like they’re seen, they’re accepted, and they’re not alone,” said Lane.
Councillor Bill Antle mentioned O’Grady’s online presence and the educational benefit it’s given the council.
“I’m learning everyday more and more about stuttering,” he said.
The NLSA is going into its sixth year of operations this November.
“We’ve accomplished a lot but there’s still more work to be done,” said O’Grady.
