Stammering Star's TV Moment Sparks Hope

A recent appearance on a primetime television show by Jessie Stride, the first contestant to openly have a stammer, has significantly boosted awareness. Tom De La Cour, who experienced considerable difficulty and self-consciousness due to his stammer during his youth in Jersey, emphasized the transformative power of representation.

De La Cour recalled actively hiding his stammer at school, fearing negative attention. He described the internal struggle of avoiding words or conversations, which led to suppressing his true self. He noted that even simple actions, like saying one's own name, can be challenging for people who stammer, often met with unhelpful jokes.

He found a crucial outlet by co-founding the Jersey Stammering Support Group. This initiative provided a safe space for individuals to connect with others who understand their experiences. De La Cour believes this shared understanding fosters confidence that extends beyond the group's meetings.

The visibility of Stride on television is seen as a major step forward. De La Cour expressed that having a stammering individual on a popular show with a large audience is invaluable for normalizing the experience. He advocates for more opportunities, including seeing a TV host who stammers, to further this goal, stating, "You can't be it if you can't see it."