This page will keep you up to date with the happenings of our support group.  If you would like to submit anything to be included, please contact Trisha!

To see the pictures in a larger format, please click on them.

NSDA National Symposium
April 4, 2009

Lori and Trisha went to Charlotte, North Carolina to attend the NSDA National Symposium and Leadership Training Day. 

The leadership training day was filled with all kinds of wonderful information and Trisha even got to present information about podcasting and our support group website!

The symposium was fun.  There were lots and lots of people from all over the United States.  The speakers presented the latest medical updates and information about how to live with SD.

Diane Rhem was the guest speaker and, as always, was an inspiration to hear.

Keep your eyes open for information about upcoming symposiums.  They are well worth the time and cost.

Second North Texas SD Support Group Meeting

On Saturday, February 28th, 2009 the North Texas SD Support Group met for its second meeting at the Trinity Medical Center in Carrollton, Texas.  There was an excellent turn out our special guest speaker, Susan Shulman, speech therapist, was a hit. 

Members of the support group enjoyed talking to others with SD and sharing tips and hints about dealing with SD.  Members shared information on doctors and Botox shot experiences. 

Refreshments were served and the members agreed to think of places around the Metroplex where the group could meet.  Members also volunteered to help with refreshments in future meetings.

NSDA South Central Regional Symposium

On November 8, 2008, NSDA held the South Central Regional Symposium.  The meeting was held in San Antonio at the University of Texas Health Science Center.  Both Lori and Trisha attended to represent the North Texas SD Support Group.  

The meeting began with comments from Kimberly Kuman, the NSDA Executive Director.  Then, Dr. Blake Simpson spoke about his treatment of SD by injecting Botox into the false vocal cords rather than the true vocal cords.  This technique allows people who use their voice for their profession (such as teachers and singers) retain more of their voice after the shot instead of going through a long "breathy" stage.  The shots are needed more frequently than the traditionally delievered injections.  One of Dr. Simpson's patients, country singer Johnny Bush, spoke about how the different delievery method has really helped him return to his recording and performance schedule.

The group was then treated to two songs by Johnny Bush and a telling of his personal struggle with SD.  Books and CDs were available for sale.

Wrapping up the meeting was a discussion session with Charlie Reavis, NSDA Vice President, and Lylia Bennet, NSDA Board Member.  They each told their own SD story and then asked for sharing from the audience.

This was an enjoyable meeting and hopefully, more people from North Texas will attend the next South Central Regional Symposium when it is scheduled.

First North Texas SD Support Group Meeting

On Saturday, August 23, 2008 the inaugural meeting of the North Texas SD Support Group was held.  The co-leaders, Trisha and Lori were pleased that a total of 17 people attended the meeting including one spouse.  Information was shared about SD, amplified telephones, and microphones.  Refreshments were served and the group had fun talking to others with SD.