To the editor:

October 22nd marked International Stuttering Awareness Day. Stuttering affects more that 80 million worldwide, including three million Americans.

Since its inception in 1947, the Stuttering Foundation has provided a ‘Big Tent’ for those seeking information and assistance, leaning on the foundational work of Charles Van Riper, Dean Williams, Joseph Sheehan and Malcolm Fraser, while delving into contemporary approaches from experts who facilitate our workshops, speak at conferences, write for our magazine, appear on our podcasts and lead our Virtual Learning sessions.

In 1957, the Foundation convened eminent speech pathologists and authorities in psychology, psychiatry and even cultural anthropology to agree upon general guidelines for a comprehensive program on stuttering. This was no small feat considering the disagreements and diversity of thought among authorities at that time. Since then, Stuttering Foundation books have been written and translated into more than 45 foreign languages and have reached more than 20 million people.

There has been disagreement and debate about the best way to treat those who stutter--that may never change since no two people stutter in the same way, and their goals may vary. The Stuttering Foundation is a resource for all who seek help.  

Visit StutteringHelp.org for more information and help.

Jane Fraser President, The Stuttering Foundation

Memphis, Tenn.