#DAW24 - Your Story - Tom Hester

Where does your dyslexia story begin?

I was diagnosed with Dyslexia when I was seven years old after struggling to keep pace with my fellow students at school. It was a relief to have a diagnosis but like many dyslexics I never really spoke about it outside of close friends and colleagues, and just dealt with it. We all just have coping mechanisms and put up with the criticism around spelling, misreading something or adding up something completely wrong.

What are your dyslexia strengths?

I'm not much for writing, to be honest. My skills are all about connecting with people face-to-face or through conversation. I really enjoy meeting new people and have a knack for getting them to trust me. I might not have any fancy written skills, but when it comes to making people feel comfortable and building relationships, that's where I really shine.

What are your key dyslexia struggles?

My biggest challenge is that my work is very much focused around email. Every week I email individuals who head up key organisations in our sector and having poor spelling is a concern for me. The frustration I have is that I don't want it to come across as lazy as most of the time I have checked the email 10 + times!!! Now I just accept the fact I am going to make the "odd" error. I have made my own process to make sure silly mistakes are not missed, but sometimes you just have to accept the odd error will slip through the net!!

Has there been an unexpected twist or turn in your story?

My daughter has been diagnosed with dyslexia, and it's like watching all the challenges I went through replay in her life. It's hard seeing her struggle with things that feel all too familiar to me. I've been working with my wife, helping her understand how to best support our daughter, but it breaks my heart to see how much effort she must put in for things others take for granted.

Despite all that, she's a classic dyslexic, creative, kind, and just one of the nicest humans you could meet. Her warmth and goodness shine through everything, no matter how tough things get.

What would you say to inspire others on their journey with dyslexia?

If I were to inspire other dyslexics, I'd tell them that I see dyslexia as like a superpower. Sure, life might be a bit harder at times, but that extra challenge builds resilience, and that resilience will take you far. I’d tell them that they are part of a really cool club filled with people who think outside the box, solve problems creatively, and bring a fresh perspective to the world.