This news section will help to keep you up to date on the latest research, new resources, upcoming events, and information about our community.
REGISTER | Understanding the Role of the Laryngologist with Dr. Joel Blumin
Join us for an educational webinar on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at 5:00 PM EDT, presented by Dysphonia International. Our guest speaker is Dr. Joel
Join us for the 2023 Dysphonia International Symposium
Join us in-person for the 2023 Dysphonia International Symposium on April 29, 2023, in the Detroit area.
Reflections on the 3rd Annual Walk for Talk
We are celebrating our community with a special highlights video from the 3rd Annual Walk for Talk!
In Memoriam | Larry Kolasa
It is with great sorrow that we share that NSDA Founding President Larry Kolasa passed away. We honor his legacy and commitment to our community.
New Name, Same Mission
Read more about the on the transition of the name change for the organization from the National Spasmodic Dysphonia to Dysphonia International.
2022 Virtual Symposium Available to View
The 2022 Virtual Symposium took place on Saturday, April 29, 2022. The four sessions, are available for viewing. The theme of the program was: YOU BELONG.
2022 | World Voice Day
World Voice Day is celebrated every April 16th with the main goal of increasing public awareness throughout the world of the importance of the voice and impact of voice problems. The 2022 theme for World Voice Day is LIFT YOUR VOICE.
On-Line Research Study for People with Spasmodic Dysphonia
As part of a project of the Dystonia Coalition, researchers are currently collecting data from patients with spasmodic dysphonia (also known as laryngeal dystonia).
Reflections on the 2nd Annual Walk for Talk
The 2nd Annual Walk for Talk brought the NSDA community together to expand awareness and raise $122,663, all of which has been matched dollar-for-dollar to support the NSDA.
NSDA Research Travel Awards for 2021 Fall Voice Conference
Read more about the ten recipients of the NSDA Research Travel Award for the 2021 Fall Voice Conference.
Four New Research Grants Funded in 2021
Through the generous support of our community, NSDA has funded four new research grants in the last ten months, totaling almost $200,000!
New Song Written for the NSDA Community
Slide guitarist Wendy Jean Garrison and Memphis-based Grace Askew, an award-winning songwriter and performer, joined together to co-write “I Have a Voice,” a heartfelt song about SD.
2021 Walk for Talk
Join us for the 2021 Walk for Talk to benefit the NSDA held from October 7 to 11, 2021. You can participate no matter where you live!
Join us for the 2021 Virtual NSDA Symposium
The National Spasmodic Dysphonia Association invites you to attend the 2021 NSDA Virtual Symposium on Saturday, May 1. for the live panel discussions.
2021 World Voice Day
World Voice Day is celebrated every April 16th with the main goal of increasing public awareness throughout the world of the importance of the voice and impact of voice problems. The 2021 theme for World Voice Day is ONE WORLD | MANY VOICES.
How to Manage Your Career During these Uncertain Times
Managing your career has never been harder for most people. But it’s not impossible.
In Memoriam | Jimmie Rodgers
Singer Jimmie Rodgers passed away. He served as an NSDA Honorary Director and was the Keynote Speaker at 2005 NSDA Symposium. Jimmie had a string of hits in the 50s and 60s including, Honeycomb and Kisses Sweeter than Wine, until spasmodic dysphonia took his singing voice away.
Reflections of 2020 | Discovering the Silver Linings
This past year has been anything but normal. In response, the NSDA adapted quickly to provide continued service and support to our community’s needs. NSDA President Charlie Reavis reflects on the many silver linings discovered during 2020.
2020 Walk for Talk Thank You Video
This Thank You Video is dedicated to all who walked, donated and supported the first-ever virtual Walk for Talk to benefit the National Spasmodic Dysphonia Association that to place October 22-25, 2020.
Auditory Feedback Control of Vocal Pitch in Spasmodic Dysphonia
New research out of the University of Pennsylvania explores the auditory feedback control of vocal pitch in spasmodic dysphonia.
Bruce A. Menk Appointed to the NSDA Board of Directors
Bruce Menk is no stranger to the NSDA. He served on our Board from 1993 to 1999 and was President for two of those years. He has served as pro bono Legal Counsel since he stepped down from the Board. With his recent retirement, he will no longer serve in that role, and will rejoin the NSDA Board.
New Legal Counsel | Susan H. Boyles
We are excited to welcome Susan H. Boyles as the new pro bono Legal Counsel for the NSDA. Susan is a Partner at the international law firm of Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP. This contribution to the NSDA is very personal to her, as she has had spasmodic dysphonia since 1996.
Linda Thompson Kenis
Linda Thompson Kenis’ voice is a British national treasure. She and her first husband, Richard Thompson, are folk-rock icons who launched their careers in the early 1970s. Kenis achieved international fame – as part of the duo, as a solo performer, and as a songwriter. Unfortunately, Linda developed spasmodic dysphonia at a young age.
2020 Issue of “Our Voice”
The theme of this issue is Turning Points. Inspired by the twists and turns of this year, 2020 has taught us collectively to be more flexible and accepting of change. In this 40-page issue, you will also find research updates, NSDA news, helpful tools and a review of support and awareness programs.