A Familiar Voice

Perhaps when you imagine National Public Radio, you hear her distinctive tone. Diane Rehm sounds like a quavering grandma, but there’s a medical reason — it’s called spasmodic dysphonia, and Rehm has had it since 1998. The condition causes involuntary movements of the larynx, and at one point it almost...

By Patrice Elizabeth Grell Yursik

May 22, 2008

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Perhaps when you imagine National Public Radio, you hear her distinctive tone. Diane Rehm sounds like a quavering grandma, but there’s a medical reason — it’s called spasmodic dysphonia, and Rehm has had it since 1998. The condition causes involuntary movements of the larynx, and at one point it almost caused her to lose the most essential asset in her talk-show host career. Rehm continues the battle with the aid of a speech therapist and Botox shots to the throat. Now it’s estimated that one and a half million people tune in for her characteristic croak every day. Rehm’s voice might occasionally be weak or shaky, but her program never is. She has interviewed the most famous and influential politicians, writers, and culture creators, and she has never shied away from asking tough questions.

The NPR superstar will make a rare Miami appearance at the Gusman Theater to kick off a yearlong celebration of the Leading Ladies of Public Broadcasting. Proceeds from her speech will benefit our local stations, thereby making WLRN better for listeners like you. Thank you. (Sorry, we couldn’t resist.) Tickets range from $25 to $100 and are available at www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.wlrn.org for event information.
Thu., May 22, 2008

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