I have discovered a wonderful low cost form of speech therapy. It is a group called Toastmasters International.

I joined a great group in San Diego called Stadium Toastmasters http://www.stadiumclubtm.org shortly before my

two year anniversary of my stroke and I am so happy that I found them.


First off I realize how fortunate I am to be in the position to attend the meetings and get there on my own.

I joined because I needed to work on my speaking skills, not so much in a public speaking forum but in just putting

words and sentences together properly again. I have been blessed to have not lost my ability to speak however

my speech was definitely affected. Sometimes the words that i intend to say just do not come out as intended.

It is even difficult for me to explain but I remember the work it took for me to relearn how to walk and I know

that if you want to improve on any skill that the best thing that you can do is to do it.

Repetition is the key to mastery. If you want to be a concert pianist you have to play the piano, a lot.


My group at Stadium Toastmasters welcomed me and made me feel very comfortable and right at home from the

very beginning. Their was never any pressure to make me speak or even to join right away.

At the third meeting I was given the option of joining their group which I accepted.


The group is a mixture of seasoned veterans of all ages and gender mixed with several new members who have

joined right before and after myself. Many members have fears and challenges like myself that they have or are

committed to overcome.


That is what is so great about my group. I am learning and growing so much just by my association with these

wonderful people by witnessing the examples that they set. Every time someone gives a talk and shares a

personal experience I feel enriched and blessed. Each member brings something of value to the table whether

they even realize it or not. It is a joy being associated with such a supportive group.

I encourage everyone if you are able to attend a Toastmasters meeting in your area.

The nine dollars a month that it costs for my dues is well worth speech therapy,support and friendships that

I receive in return.