Dyslexia: One Girl's Story from Tragedy to Triumph

INSPIRATIONAL GIRLS, November 2010, by Jenifer Merifield


Dyslexia
One Girl's Story from Tragedy to Triumph  



Jennifer SmithMeet Jenny. She has Dyslexia.

People with Dyslexia get labeled lazy, stupid, dumb and other names. Not just by other kids, but at times by frustrated adults too! It leaves them feeling ashamed, embarrassed, anxiety ridden and sad.

Jennifer Smith (Jenny) was a happy-go-lucky girl until she began school. “I couldn’t comprehend what I was supposed to learn. I couldn’t learn to read.”

“Even when I was nine years old I could not read. I couldn’t even read the word ‘the’. I would remember how to read this easy word on some days and on other days I would forget. I felt stupid. I was teased relentlessly,” remembers Jenny.

What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is known as a language-based 'Learning Disorder' that causes people to have difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading. They may mix up letters and numbers, have trouble remembering things like addresses, and struggle with reading, spelling and writing. (Signs of Dyslexia)

What did Jenny do?

She decided to make a difference! After Jenny was diagnosed she got the support and help she needed and was no longer ridiculed. She didn’t want other kids to go through what she did, so she wrote a book for Dyslexia awareness and support and created a foundation.

“I watched in school as people were being treated differently by other students and I didn’t want them to feel the way I once felt.  So I authored ‘Dyslexia Wonders’ and founded ‘Jenny’s Wish Foundation’ to give scholarships to students with learning disabilities.”

She also learned about the importance of different technologies, such as the 'Intel Reader'. "This thing is awesome, it takes pictures of text, turns it into a digital format, and then it literally reads it to me as fast as I want," says Jenny, "so it’s great to help me with schoolwork and everyday life.”

“My message to girls is that there will be obstacles in life, but a positive attitude can make all the difference in achieving your goals!

What Limits do Dyslexics Have?

None! Jenny has proven that there are no limits if you believe in yourself. She is a member of the National Honor Society and her GPA is a 3.75 (yay Jenny!). But what about extra-curricular activities? Jenny says, “I love participating in sports such as basketball, soccer and volleyball. I am also a black belt in taekwondo.” So I'd say no limits there either. Not only that but she has won the International Dyslexia Association's Remy Johnston Award of Merit for her service to the dyslexia community.

Personally, I prefer to see Dyslexia as a 'challenge' rather than a DISability because as far as I can see, Jenny Smith has proven that she is very ABLE!

Learn more about Jenny or her foundation website.

~ Jenifer


Comment

kali
I too have dyslexia its really frusterating somtimes
April
You Go Girl!!
Susan
I have a learning disability and I was inspired by Jenny's story. I am going to stand up and tell others I also have a learning disability and not hide my head in shame. Thank you Jenny.

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