My Dyslexia Story: Jason Cook (Cookster)
Wednesday 15 January 2025
I was diagnosed in prison. My family and teachers didn鈥檛 understand what it was as at school I spent most of my time outside the headmaster鈥檚 office. I would get embarrassed and was made to look stupid, in the end I nearly got expelled. Eventually I got a support teacher, but it was too late.
Dyslexia was a struggle for me, not being able to read or write, forgetfulness and not knowing what left and right were and if given instructions I would forget them as soon as they were given to me. That鈥檚 when I withdrew and started acting the fool. I had lots of plans but couldn鈥檛 concentrate as my mind would be jumping around everywhere
My Success Story
It鈥檚 impacted me all my life, so far as people judge me. My written skills are better now, but only because there are tools to help. I spent 20 years not being able to progress. I still forget passwords and directions or forget to bring things to work.
On the plus side, I can see things before others do. I can articulate myself well. I have gone on to make a movie about my struggles and want to share that with the world. I have also gone on to write books.
The benefits of having dyslexia are that I see the end goal quite quickly, I can problem solve and my imagination is good.
Once I was diagnosed in prison, I found tools to help me see things differently. I was given support and helped to learn to read, and I now use speaker note and spell checkers
Although I have dyslexia I have managed to write seven successful books one of which has been made into a movie based, based on my story.
"I want to share the movie of my life called based on my younger years dealing with dyslexia which is being released in cinemas soon and I鈥檇 like to help the British dyslexia association build worldwide awareness through the movie."
My advice for someone who has recently been diagnosed with dyslexia:
Take your time, find the methods that work for you. Always talk about your struggles. Being dyslexic can be a blessing, so many dyslexics have gone on to do well.
Different ways might work for you, try different ways, talk openly about what you find difficult, and focus on what you鈥檙e good at.
Don鈥檛 let it hold you back as it shouldn鈥檛.
The one thing you would like the world to know about dyslexia?
Being diagnosed early can have a major impact on a person's life for the rest of their lives. Being understood and with the right support will help them to be more confident and could stop those youngsters going down the wrong route. With help, they can thrive take control of their lives, and achieve great things