I proved that my speech didn't limit my abilities

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Samuel

Samuel Patrick tells us about the challenging Royal Navy training course that helped him realise inner strengths and accept his stammer.

Stammering has always been a part of me. Something I've worked to manage throughout my life. But it wasn't until I joined the Royal Navy PTI (Physical Training Instructor) course that I realised just how much of a challenge it would pose. 

The course was the hardest thing I've ever done, yet the most rewarding. It wasn't just the physical demands that tested me; it was also the intense pressure to communicate clearly in a high-stress environment. I had to confront this challenge head-on. I won't sugarcoat it: it was incredibly tough. But through sheer willpower, relentless determination and the support of those around me, I persevered and got through it.

Life on a submarine was an ideal environment for someone like me who occasionally struggled with speech.

Before joining the PTI course, I served as a submariner. In many ways, life on a submarine was an ideal environment for someone like me who occasionally struggled with speech. The underwater setting, close-knit team, and intense environment meant that speaking wasn't something I had to do much of. The constant noise and the limited need for verbal communication meant that I could often get by without stammering being an issue. Despite this, the requirement to report and respond quickly during critical moments only amplified my stammer.

Facing the challenge

The transition from a submariner to a physical training instructor pushed me in ways I'd never been pushed before. Instructors are expected to be strong leaders, motivators and communicators, often delivering orders to large groups during physical training sessions. For someone with a stammer, this transition was a huge challenge. Despite my fear of public speaking I was determined to face it. 

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As physically draining as the course was, it was the mental aspect that really tested me. The more stress I felt, the harder it became to speak. I'd find myself stuck on words, stumbling over sentences, all while trying to remain calm and composed. It felt like the whole world was watching, waiting for me to trip up. It was incredibly frustrating and exhausting, and there were times when I felt like quitting. But I learnt along the way that giving up was never an option. I was determined to prove to myself — and to others — that my stammer would not define my ability to succeed. It's true what they say: "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts."

I chose to focus on my strengths instead: my drive, my resilience and my desire to push through, no matter how difficult the challenge is.

During the course, I used techniques I had learned over the years to manage my speech. I slowed my pace, focused on my breathing and took those extra seconds to gather my thoughts before speaking. I also worked on being more patient with myself. Stammering isn't just about speech — your confidence can be knocked if you let it. So, I chose to focus on my strengths instead: my drive, my resilience and my desire to push through, no matter how difficult the challenge is. I reminded myself daily that, "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog." And I was ready to fight.

Support & acceptance

One of the key things that helped me throughout the course was the support I received from my classmates and instructors. They were incredibly understanding, and they allowed me the time I needed to speak, never rushing me or making me feel pressured. Some of them even went the extra mile to encourage me when I was struggling to get the words out. It was these moments that made a huge difference. Some days left me completely drained. There were days when my stammer was more pronounced than others, but the encouragement from both my team and family and friends helped me keep going. They reminded me that it was about giving my best effort and pushing through when things got tough, rather than trying to be 'perfect'.

After completing the course, I had not only developed my physical training abilities, but I had also conquered my fear of public speaking. I had learnt to cope in high-pressure situations, and I had proven to myself that my speech didn't define me nor limit my abilities. Looking back, I am proud of how far I have come. Every step along the way taught me something valuable about myself. My stammer will always be with me but it no longer holds me back. Instead, I have learned to accept it as a part of who I am — a part that I continue to manage, one day at a time.

If you are reading this and you are struggling with a stammer or facing any challenge that feels impossible, remember: "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." And I've learnt that if you have the willpower to keep on going, and if you refuse to let fear hold you back, you really can achieve anything. No challenge is too great, no obstacle too big. Keep moving forward, keep pushing, and never let anything stop you from becoming who you're meant to be. Because if I can do it, so can you.

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