First, so sorry for your loss of your friend. As for your mother, it is amazing that you have such a strong role model and she has learned to reign in her stutter. As for you, like me, it took something bigger than me to realize that I will no longer let my stutter control my life. Once I fully understood that, I felt free. Granted, it took me turning 40 years old but I believe that all my life experiences led to my freedom. I hope that helps.