No need to feel defeated. I've stuttered my whole life and I don't feel that way. Wish I would have stopped at 6 though, you missed the worst part of it! I think the more you are aware and think about it, it makes you worry you will stutter then your anxiety goes up which causes you to actually stutter. For me, I can speak great in front of an audience of hundreds and aced a college speech course, but I have a *hell* of a time telling my dad a funny joke. I often feel frustrated, but not defeated. Project confidence and make that lecture your bitch.