This talk was given at a local TEDxSnoIsleLibraries event and produced independently of the TED Conferences. Shaela Niles, writer and selfdescribed monster slayer, shares how learning about “selective mutism” on Wikipedia changed her life.

Wikipedia provided Shaela with a key that has helped her unlock her life and future. This blogger, college student, and budding novelist recently wrote a story of a young boy with an anxiety disorder who had to find the courage to fight the monsters that only he saw around him. Shaela is passionate about expressing her thoughts through writing, public speaking and the need to raise awareness about the overcoming the things which can hold you prisoner.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx