Description: Some Stutter, Luh! welcomes Kris Conlin who shares her personal experience with dyscalculia. She emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about dyscalculia and the need for better support systems in education. Kris recommends others to follow their passion to maintain mental wellbeing! Notes: Kris explains her challenges with dyscalculia, a branch of dyslexia that affects the brain's processing of numbers and data, making math challenging. She faced difficulties at school due to dyscalculia, but she was lucky to receive help from supportive teachers, and specialized programs. Dyscalculia significantly affected Kris's self-esteem and mental health. Despite her condition, she successfully navigates her job by coping strategies like focusing on her love for plants and gardening to manage stress. Emphasizing the need for increased awareness and support for dyscalculia, Kris advocates for more resources and training for teachers and mental health professionals. She highlights the vital role of her support systems, including therapy and family, in managing her condition. Additionally, she advises others with dyscalculia to engage in activities they are passionate about to help manage their condition and maintain mental well-being. About Kris: My name is Kris and I’m honored to be a guest on this radio podcast to share my personal journey with Dyscalculia. I believe that by sharing my experiences, we can raise awareness about this learning disability and inspire others to overcome its challenges. I realized I had Dyscalculia roughly around Grade 8 when one of my best friends mentioned the condition as they were recently diagnosed. It made perfect sense; I struggled with mathematics and trying to practice the concepts were marked by frustration and self-doubt. However, I was determined not to let this learning disability define my potential. Challenges: Dyscalculia presented a range of challenges in my academic and personal life. Tasks that involved numbers, such as basic calculations and mental math seemed insurmountable at the time. I often felt isolated and struggled to keep up with my peers. Thankfully, I wasn’t alone as there were a group of kids in my grade that all needed some extra help. The Turning Point: My turning point came when I met a couple supportive teachers in middle school (Ms. N. Elias and Ms. L. Cusak) who recognized my struggles and provided alternative teaching methods. With their help, I started building a foundation of numerical understanding step by step. It was a slow and often frustrating process, but I remained committed. Overcoming Dyscalculia: Through years of hard work, determination, and the support of dedicated educators and loved ones, I began to gain confidence in my mathematical abilities. I discovered strategies and tools that worked for me, such as visual aids, specialized tutoring, and assistive technology. Today, I can proudly say that I’ve overcome many of the challenges associated with Dyscalculia. I’ve not only improved my math skills but also learned to embrace my unique way of thinking. My journey has led me to become an advocate for individuals with learning disabilities and to inspire others to never give up on their dreams. Message to Others: To anyone struggling with Dyscalculia or any learning disability, I want to emphasize that you are not alone, and it’s okay to seek help. With the right support and determination, you can overcome the challenges posed by Discalculia and achieve your goals. Remember, your journey is unique, and your strengths are immeasurable. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story on this podcast, and I hope it encourages conversations about Dyscalculia and the importance of inclusive education. Together, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of their learning differences, can thrive and reach their full potential.