When I hear that someone has lost a limb or lost their health to cancer I aim for empathy but sometimes fall short at sympathy. But those of us who were born with disabilities haven't lost anything. We'd rather have your understanding.
You've probably been told that
dyslexia is a reading problem that some children
face, but reading
difficulties can persist
into adulthood. I'm an
adult with dyslexia.
I have difficulties
with...
-spelling
(problem spelling challenging words as
well as everyone, ordinary words. I had to ask my husband how to
write challenge, for example.)
-understanding what I've
read
-pronouncing words when reading aloud
-learning a
foreign language
-comprehending
when reading quickly
-"sounding
out" words in my head
I think this list is long
enough
You may think, okay,
so if dyslexia is a problem with reading I'll just communicate
verbally. This
strategy could work for some, but not for me. I can get lost in
verbal communication. Instead of focusing on your words, I try to read
you. Are you losing patience with me? What's your body language
saying? Are you stiff? Am I frustrating you? Are you
shifting your weight from one foot to another? Am I making you
uncomfortable? What are you think?
Much
like people with physical,
visual, hearing, and other
challenges, dyslexics are
individuals who face
unique challenges. You need to get to know us
before you can figure out how to help.
updated March 8, 2021
For more information...
What is Dyslexia
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