I grew up around a deaf/hoh community in close proximity to a couple deaf schools. I’ve had deaf friends and know some basic signs. I’ve had hearing friends be fluent in ASL and be totally accepted in the deaf community. The deaf community and culture is vibrant, optimistic, and loving. Some of the funniest people I’ve ever known. When I read posts from fellow stutterers who seem to have reached their end with their current method of communication, to the point that they have given up all hope of having friends, loves, being understood — there is another way, and a very fulfilling one at that. Would it be work? Absolutely. But a person could start learning sign language today and have a hope for the future and not continue in despair, or worse.