Paula, there's a trick I use when I'm having trouble speaking, and need to talk on the phone. I put on a phony smile, and try to speak without moving my lips, like a ventriloquist. It looks crazy, so I just do it on the phone, and I can speak more distinctly and quickly. Maybe it will work for you, too.

I just tried reading this message outloud. I'm slurring and lisping. I can't even say certain sounds without my mouth contorting as if I have cerebral palsey. (I do have dystonia, so that may be causing my speech problems.)

But when I act like a ventriloquist moving my lips much less, I can read it much better. I do need to pause midway through it, though.

It's really helpful on the phone.