When I was in first grade, we were going around the class, taking turns reading a section from our book. But when my turn came, I stuttered, stammered, and was unable to read it, I was so embarrassed.
As my schooling progressed, I discovered ways to compensate for my inability to read out loud. I remember sitting in fear of being called on to spell a word or read a passage, I knew I was different but didn’t understand why.
Even with my tireless hard work that resulted in high grades, my parents watched me continue to struggle to comprehend basic concepts and receive low test scores.
When I was in the 5th grade, my family sought the help of a Dyslexia specialist, Helen Macik (see interview), and was diagnosed with Dyslexia. I decided that I would not let one single word define me, but rather, it would be a badge that I would wear with honor. I completed a reading recovery program with Jana McWilliams (see interview) and, with proper accommodations, I skyrocketed academically and personally. With my test scores rising, specifically in reading, I knew it was time to share my story to inspire and advocate for children who are like me.
A week into high school, I contacted the test accommodations coordinator and asked her to be my sponsor for the Dyslexia Club. At first, my peers didn’t want their learning disorder to be so public. But their hesitation was my motivation to educate them on how they were not alone. There was no need to hide their different style of learning. What started as a small group of only four members quickly evolved into a large organization that would advocate for the inclusion of those with a distinct learning style.
Following my Dyslexia advocacy and learning experiences, I felt the need to further help those students but starting my nonprofit, Dyslexia Matters.
As I continue to share my story of perseverance, I remember that I chose to be a victor and not a victim. I decided to be a person of grit and to look at what some might perceive as failures as my greatest accomplishments. These challenges have molded me into who I am today. A role model of mine once said, “I am a collection of everyone I have ever met.” This statement is so true because, through my experiences, everyone I have helped has helped me become the person I am today. I am dyslexically different.
Gabriella Collins
Why Dyslexia Matters
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