In 1974 there was a bright ten year old girl, Louisa Outerbridge, who despite her desperate efforts, was failing all subjects except gym and music. She attended The Bermuda High School for Girls where her teachers were understanding yet mystified by Louisa's poor performance. No one knew she had dyslexia.

Fortunately Miss Outerbridge and her family were referred to The Reading Clinic where Mrs. Elizabeth Kitson diagnosed the reason for her learning difficulties, dyslexia.

Miss Outerbridge explained that her problem was audio-visual memory shortage related to spelling and reading. She said, "I couldn't remember the phonetic sounds so it made reading very difficult.'' One of the tutors at The Learning Center, Ann Dunstan, began the task of tutoring Miss Outerbridge at her home once a week. She was taught sounds with picture clues and learned the classic rules of grammar like i before e except after c.

In the beginning Mrs. Dunstan used early modification methods and allowed Louisa to draw pictures rather than write stories.

Miss Outerbridge's relationship with The Reading Clinic continued for four years until there was no longer a struggle. Reading became her love and she became a competent student who excelled at her studies.

"My success there changed my life forever! I went on to college in the US and in four years achieved my Bachelor's degree. Then I obtained a Master's degree in teaching.

"I came home to Bermuda and taught at Harrington Sound School for one year. I returned to The Bermuda High School for Girls where I have taught for three years,'' she said cheerfully.

Miss Outerbridge said her experience with dyslexia has made her more sensitive to children who have learning difficulties. She stressed that it is very important for parents to read with their children early on and have their children read to them.

"I encourage people with reading or learning difficulties to seek help at The Reading Clinic. Go for that initial evaluation. They will recommend a programme of study right for each individual,'' she concluded.

Louisa Outerbridge