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SpeechEasy Newsletter | May 2013

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month!

Every May is designated as Better Hearing and Speech month and is so designated to help bring awareness of resources available to those challenged with hearing or speech disorders. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association over 14 million Americans are affected.

Many Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) are providing special events and programs during this month. The theme this year is “Helping People Communicate”. You may wish to contact your SLP or SpeechEasy Provider to see if they are offering anything to promote awareness of this event.

Right now SpeechEasy is offering a $150 evaluation rebate to help offset the cost of a SpeechEasy first -time evaluation with one of our Providers. Since 2008 SpeechEasy has paid over 1000 of these rebates to aid and encourage those who stutter make an informed decision about their therapy options-including SpeechEasy.

What Happens at a SpeechEasy Evaluation?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions that we receive here at SpeechEasy. During an evaluation, our Providers have been trained to help give you an accurate assessment of your stuttering and the effect SpeechEasy has on it. Yes, you get to try a real SpeechEasy and see all the available models in person.

As professionally certified Speech Language Pathologists, our Providers want to make sure that SpeechEasy is the best therapy option for you. Remember, there is never an obligation to buy a SpeechEasy during your evaluation.

Although evaluation experiences will differ, here are some of the recommended steps we train our Provider to include:

A frank discussion about your past experiences and therapy. This helps make sure you and your fluency goals are realistic and attainable.
A review of how the choral speech signal that SpeechEasy utilizes works for most people who stutter.
A baseline assessment of your fluency without SpeechEasy in reading and monologue.
An assessment of your fluency with a SpeechEasy device and a discussion of changes in fluency noted.
Programming of the device to ascertain the most beneficial delay and pitch settings for maximum fluency for you.
A trial period during the allotted evaluation time when you wear a SpeechEasy device and try it for yourself.
A professional recommendation from your Provider as whether SpeechEasy is the right option for your stuttering management.
A discussion about the various models and which would be most appropriate for you should you choose to purchase.
A summary about <funding options >may be discussed with your Provider but many times these can be reviewed with us here at SpeechEasy prior to your appointment.

The decision to begin the process and see if SpeechEasy is right for you begins with the investment in this valuable time with one of our Providers. There are over 110 caring Providers located throughout the United States who are ready to help you make a decision about your fluency options. We’ll be glad to help you set up an appointment.

SpeechEasy Newsletter | April 2013

April 16th, 2013 | Posted by SpeechEasy in News | SpeechEasy | Stuttering | Stuttering Resources - (0 Comments)

Children who stutter and SpeechEasy

One of the most commonly asked questions we receive from parents, relatives, friends and even Speech Language Pathologists is, “What age do you recommend SpeechEasy for a child who stutters?”

Any intervention with an assistive device for children, no matter what that device may be, demands special considerations. SpeechEasy relies on our professional providers to assist families in making this important decision when it comes to treating childhood stuttering. All of our providers are experienced, licensed and certified Speech Language Pathologists trained to advise appropriate treatment options.

During an evaluation with the child and the family, the provider will consider these individual factors:
· Physiological appropriateness
· Effectiveness of past stuttering treatment
· Social and mental maturity
· Motivation level
· Child’s capability to be responsible
· Support structure
· Response to SpeechEasy

It would be easy, but also inappropriate for anyone to state a definite age when SpeechEasy should be recommended for children. The decision and the answer lie in professional counseling. If you would like to speak with one of our providers please let us know and we’ll have one get in touch with you.
We also have a Clinical Services Manager on staff at SpeechEasy who could also offer professional guidance.
SpeechEasy: What is the first step?

Many people have asked us the question where do they start when they feel it’s time to make a change with their fluency.

There’s really only one answer.

Get evaluated first.

Why?

Well, first of all you don’t have to purchase a SpeechEasy just because you have been evaluated. There isn’t an obligation to buy just because you meet with a SpeechEasy Provider. In addition, the program settings that work best for you are kept on file by your Provider for at least one year and will be there when you are ready to actually order your device.

It is important to know if SpeechEasy is right for you before you go through the process of deciding how to purchase it. If SpeechEasy is the fluency treatment choice you make, then you can pursue any of our SpeechEasy Credit funding options. And we’ll help.

We will be glad to help you take the first step and make an appointment with the SpeechEasy Provider you choose. Now is a good time.

Save $500 on SpeechEasy Comfort Fit model now

The Making Fluency Easier promotion is still going on until May 31st. Order a SpeechEasy Comfort Fit model and get $500 off the normal price.

Simply, go to speecheasy.com/mfe-survey.php and complete the easy survey about your past experiences with stuttering treatments and we will email you the coupon. You can also just contact us and we will send it to you however you wish.

With new lower prices on all Speecheasy devices and this great offer on our most popular SpeechEasy model, we are committed to Making Fluency Easier.

SpeechEasy Newsletter | March 2013

March 6th, 2013 | Posted by SpeechEasy in Product Updates | SpeechEasy | Stuttering - (0 Comments)

Promotion helps make SpeechEasy more affordable, provides valuable info for all through survey

The Making Fluency Easier promotion is now entering its second month and the $500 discount coupon is the hands of many people considering SpeechEasy. In order to get the coupon, people either completed our survey online or received it when they requested an information packet. If you haven’t yet completed the survey and received your coupon, please act now as the offer ends May 31st.

As the surveys are completed, we will compile all the information and share the results with you after the promotion ends in May. We think that what we learn from you will help people who stutter and their families make informed decisions about their fluency options. Based on the partial survey results we have gathered so far, over 90% of the respondents say they had participated in fluency therapy at some point in their lives. Most say this occurred at school.

Your response will help others. Let us learn from you!

Thanks for checking it out!

www.speecheasy.com

If you own a SpeechEasy, remember the client loyalty discount

Over two years ago we began our Client Loyalty Discount program. The purpose of the program is to demonstrate our appreciation to our SpeechEasy clients.

So, if you own a SpeechEasy and want a newer model or perhaps just decide to buy another, you are eligible for this 10% loyalty discount at the time of purchase. Make sure you let your Provider know that you own a SpeechEasy, particularly if you purchased your device from a different Provider.

We thank all of our SpeechEasy clients for their trust in us and our great product.

SpeechEasy Provider: Pam Bashor

We wanted to take a minute and introduce you to one of our SpeechEasy Providers in Charlotte, NC. Pam Bashor, MS, CCC-SLP has been working with clients who stutter and SpeechEasy for many years now with great success. Here’s a little more you should know about Pam…

Pamela H. Bashor CCC-SLP has been a practicing speech pathologist since 1970 and has operated a successful private practice since 1982. She has worked with many people in business, media, the vocal arts and the professions to help them achieve their goals of communication excellence as a tool for success. She has also worked with major corporations to develop employee’s verbal skills. She has lectured and published on the voice, a tool for success. In her private practice, Mrs. Bashor also treats adults and children with speech, language and voice disorders. Her clients include toddlers through senior citizens with communication disorders related to hearing loss, neurological impairment, structural abnormalities, delayed development, learning problems, voice disorders and stuttering.

When asked for her thoughts on SpeechEasy, Pam said:

Many people who stutter have had speech therapy but continue to struggle to be fluent in spite of applying the techniques they have learned. When I first heard about the SpeechEasy device at a North Carolina Speech Language and Hearing Convention I was happy to know that there was another aid that might improve my client’s success with fluency. I have been a SpeechEasy provider for many years since that time. While the SpeechEasy is not right for every client who tries it, there are many “Oprah moments”, that occur when a person experiences easy fluency for the first time. I always emphasize that learning to use the SpeechEasy and applying the good fluency techniques learned in speech therapy is still critical for continued success. This is their personal journey. The workbook that comes with their device is an excellent guide to success and I review it with each client. I add a page of breathing and voice warm-up exercises of my own.

During this past year, I have had the honor of working with several local veterans referred by the Veteran’s Affairs (VA) department. These servicemen have received speech therapy at the VA and return there for therapy after being fit with the SpeechEasy. Most have struggled with stuttering all of their lives. They are so grateful for improved fluency. During the follow-up session, they report that it means less stress on their jobs, more ability to parent their children, the ability to read out loud during their Sunday school class, better connections with their neighbors, less isolation. That is when I have my own “Oprah moment”.

Pam is just one example of the type of professional we have within our network. We are lucky to have her and her expertise and if you have the opportunity to work with Pam, we are sure you will feel the same!

Idol contestant Lazaro Arbos’ priceless gift

February 21st, 2013 | Posted by SpeechEasy in Stuttering - (0 Comments)

Article from Tampa Bay Fox News. The original article can be found here.

ORLANDO (FOX 13) -

He makes singing look so easy, but many American Idol fans have learned Lazaro Arbos has a difficult time speaking. The Naples, Florida resident has a stutter, but that hasn’t stopped him from sharing his voice.

What you might not know is Lazaro’s journey to the Idol stage is thanks in part to the generosity of a complete stranger.

“We’re delighted beyond words for Lazaro and his family,” explains Martha Lopez-Anderson of Orlando.

Nine years ago, Martha was overcoming an incredible loss. Her 10-year-old son Sean collapsed while rollerblading, and never woke up.

“His heart was quivering,” explains Martha. “Once paramedics were there, they were never able to regain a normal heart rhythm. Shortly thereafter, he was brain dead.”

Just like Lazaro, Sean had a stutter. He was fitted with a noise-changing, hearing aide shaped device called a “Speech Easy.” It works by manipulating how a patient hears himself.

“It is your voice, but a different frequency,” explains speech therapist Janet Skotko. “Say you’re speaking here (lower register), and then you go up (higher register).”

Martha says the device impacted Sean’s ability to speak, but since he died, they were left with a device that was very expensive. Speech Easy devices can cost up to $4500, however, Martha thought someone else could Sean’s. After countless searches, Janet connected Lazaro with Martha, and helped fit Lazaro for the device.

Over the years, Janet and Martha lost touch with Lazaro. Martha had since dedicated her life to helping children with hidden heart problems. She runs the Orlando-based non-profit “Saving Young Hearts.” The group places AED’s in schools and churches.

At a recent donation to the Lake Eola Charter School in Orlando, Martha said, “We knew there was nothing we could do to bring young Sean back. We knew there was a lot we could do to prevent another family from going through what we went through.”

Saving young hearts has donated nearly 100 AED’s over the past decade. However, it was Martha’s donation of her son’s “Speech Easy” that helped Lazaro find his voice.

“We were in Seattle, WA, when my cousin sent me a text and said I think that young boy that you donated the device to is on TV. He’s on American Idol. We ran up to the room, and sat and watched,” says Martha. “Luckily for us, it was one hour to wait and watch him, and sure enough it was Lazaro.”

Lazaro was in front of a world audience, showcasing the one thing that brought him the greatest challenge.

“My first reaction was relief for him, happiness for him, joy… tears,” observes Janet.

Both Janet and Martha say it only took minutes to see how much Lazaro has grown. They think he most likely outgrew the donated Speech Easy device, however, they hope it made it easier for him to speak. Both consider Lazaro a star, honoring Sean’s legacy with every song he sings.

“I don’t care how much he sweats, and how much he stutters, I see confidence in Lazaro,” says Martha. “We’re rooting for him, we’re praying for him, and regardless of the outcome, we know this is going to be an amazing experience that is going to take him to a whole new level.

Stutterers burst on the stage – not stuttering

February 18th, 2013 | Posted by SpeechEasy in News | Stuttering | Stuttering Resources - (0 Comments)

The following article is written by Maddie Hanna, and posted on philly.com. The original article can be found here.

During a rehearsal Monday night in the sanctuary of a Cherry Hill church, Lucy Reed spoke each of her lines smoothly.

“Jo, you were different,” she said, a small audience listening from the pews of the Unitarian Universalist Church. “In high school, you were a regular hell-raiser, and still everybody liked you. All those boys chasing after you.”

When her speech isn’t scripted, however, Reed isn’t so fluent. She stutters.

So do Katherine Filer and Sue Camlin, who will join her onstage at the Adrienne Theater in Philadelphia on Sunday and Monday nights in performing a one-act play put on by a nonprofit theater company that aims to give acting opportunities to people who stutter.

The three women, all in their 50s and 60s, have never acted before. In the past, their stuttering had served as a barrier to public speaking, from skipping sessions of reading aloud in grade school to worrying about telling a gas station attendant what grade to pump.

Now, they are confronting those fears by performing Tough Cookies by Edward Crosby Wells, a play about a woman, her mother, and a longtime neighbor hashing out deep-seated conflicts and anxieties.

While Filer stutters during rehearsals, Camlin does so less, and Reed not at all.

“I just feel really comfortable,” said Reed, a speech-language pathologist from Glassboro.

The same was true for David Shinefield, the founder of Together We Act, which is putting on Tough Cookies with $11,000 in donations raised online. As a student at Yeshiva University, Shinefield was amazed when he didn’t stutter while auditioning for a part in Of Mice and Men.

Before graduating, Shinefield, now 22, had started Together We Act. Last year, the nonprofit put on its first one-act play, featuring three men who stutter. None did onstage.

“Everyone was thinking, ‘Is this a big sham?’ ” Shinefield said of the audience’s reaction. Any doubts were resolved during a question-and-answer session, when the men returned to stuttering, he said.

Even for actors who don’t stutter, the fluency they experience onstage is rarely sustainable, said Joseph Donaher, program director of research and academics in the Center for Childhood Communication at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

“In acting, you’re practicing and memorizing a specific set of lines that you’ve recited over and over again. The rhythm tends to help the person move forward,” Donaher said.

The problem is that spontaneous speech “is rarely that rhythmical,” he said.

It’s difficult to permanently address stuttering – a neurologically based condition that starts in childhood and affects 1 percent of the population – for similar reasons, Donaher said. Using speech therapy techniques before speaking feels artificial to many stutterers.

Everyone who stutters also does so differently, meaning there’s no one strategy to address it, Donaher said.

But one trait many stutterers share is speech-related anxiety, Donaher said.

To be effective, therapy “has to address the emotional component,” he said. “And accepting the fact that you stutter.”

The director of Tough Cookies, Kathe Mull, hasn’t tried to stop the women from stuttering. “We just don’t address it,” she said.

New York-based Mull got involved with the play by responding to an ad Shinefield posted online.

“I thought this would be an interesting way to work with people who had never been in the theater and show them that world,” she said. “I knew that we were going to be starting from scratch.”

Memorizing lines was a challenge. Filer, a network consultant and life coach from Sicklerville who started the South Jersey chapter of the National Stuttering Association, is nervous when she thinks about two of her lines, each seven lines long on the script.

But she isn’t embarrassed about how she might say them. “We say, ‘Kathe, what if we’re stuttering?’ ” Filer said. “She’ll say, ‘Well then, stutter.’ ”

For more information on tickets for Sunday and Monday’s performances, visit www.togetherweact.com.