I am dyslexic.
That doesn't mean I'm dim, dumb or slow. It simply means that my brain processes information very differently than many of you. And it means that some everyday tasks you take for granted, create problems for me.
So what exactly is dyslexia?
Web MD describes dyslexia as, "a learning problem that makes it hard to read, write, and spell. It occurs because the brain jumbles or mixes up letters and words... also, some studies have found problems with how the brain links letters and words with the sounds they make."
No one experiences dyslexia in exactly the same way, but there are common symptoms; reversing letters when writing, changing the order of numbers and constantly mixing up left and right -- are just a few. I mix up my b's & d's, my d's & g's, my g's & q's and my p's & 9's.
I switch numbers; if your address is 346, I see 436 and assume if I say, "turn right at the light" I really mean left. I have been dealing with my dysfunction for thirty-odd years now and though I am aware of my disability and can immediately identify when it rears its ugly backward head, my "condition" has not and will not improve.
So when I was watching last week's ANTM and saw how dyslexia affected Laura, I instantly felt a connection.
To see how her anxiety built as she got closer to her task, knowing that her challenges would require skills that can be greatly impaired by her disability, was something I totally identified with. Reading a teleprompter or memorizing lines seems pretty easy, but when you are constantly switching and/or omitting words, something so simple becomes quite difficult and the source of apprehension.
Laura took the challenges head-on, but this time around, the dyslexia won out. I have been there, Laura. You know what's coming, and when you make that first mistake, you think "Oh no, here we go..." then you try too hard to be perfect, and the harder you try the worse it gets. It started back in grade school when you first got called-on to read aloud in class -- and followed you all the way into your adult/professional life.
Laura, I want to impress upon you and anyone else dealing with dyslexia that you can do anything you want and you can excel. From adolescence to adulthood, dyslexia manifests itself in difficulty remembering names of people and places, hesitant speech, difficulty finding appropriate words and difficulty organizing ideas to write a letter or paper. Not on the top of the list of skills to have when setting out to write a column or become a radio personality.
However, here I am, the host of a daily radio talk show and writing for the "Tyra Show's" website. And if I can do it, I KNOW you can do it! But you cannot do it alone. You need the support and patience of family, friends, teachers and co-workers.
But those of us dealing with dyslexia don't expect nor do we want shortcuts or pity -- any more than anyone else dealing with a disability or handicap. We just need a little assistance (when we ask) and a little understanding (when we don't).
Laura, from what I can see, you are a smart, beautiful, sweet and talented young lady who can become a successful entertainment reporter or the hottest spokesmodel in the industry. Its just going to mean more preparation, taking your time during auditions and being ready to think quickly on your feet.
Overcoming dyslexia is not easy. Tasks will take you longer, you will have to work harder and be more determined to achieve your goals. Believe in yourself and your abilities.
Don't beat yourself up -- no saying "I'm so dumb/stupid."
Be positive -- don't ever think that you can't do something because of dyslexia.
And keep pushing! -- Whatever you set your mind to and work hard for is within your reach.
Your only limitations are the ones place on yourself...
Resources for finding out more about dyslexia:
DyslexiaFoundation.org
Wikipedia
WebMD.com
