22/03/2026
Last night, I got to sit by the poolside and announce at my daughter’s swimming event, headset microphone on, reading names, safety announcements, and official calls.
I’ve done a lot of public speaking in my time, but new situations can still trigger that old fear response. I was only diagnosed with dyslexia at 36, and for a long time, public reading like this would have been my worst nightmare. I used to show up and deliver when it wasn’t directed at me, but there was always a huge fear response underneath. Last night, simply being able to tell the organisers, I have dyslexia, and feeling supported, was enough to carry me through.
I’ve worked on it though. I still notice it sometimes, but it’s nowhere near what it was. I used to only read poems in my yoga classes when everyone’s eyes were closed, and while I still love that space, I know now I don’t need it in the same way.
What really struck me last night was how much it takes to make these events happen. The sheer number of parents stepping in everywhere, quietly keeping everything moving. Sitting in the stands, I’d never fully appreciated it before.
When I was asked just three days before if I’d do it, my first instinct was to say no. Fear kicked in straight away. But my husband gave me a gentle nudge, and I said yes.
Did I get everything right? No.
Did I mispronounce names? Definitely (so sorry!).
But I showed up, I did it, and even had a bit of fun.
That’s growth to me.
Not fear disappearing. Just not letting it decide for you anymore.
Well done to all the young athletes, their performances are truly inspiring.
If you’ve ever been asked to volunteer and quietly thought, I can’t do that, I encourage you to consider what would happen if you just said yes.
💛 So grateful to all the volunteers who make these events possible.
Doda simply means heart, named after my daughter and husband.
With love,
Naomi ✨
