Hello, My name is Kayla. On the outside, I probably look like your average 18 year old girl. brown hair, brown eyes, hands, feet etc. but what most people don't know about me is that I have Asperger's Syndrome. I was diagnosed at age 4. back then i had frequent tanturms, was pretty violent for a girl my age and also wouldn't eat anything but macaroni and cheese, fruit and hot dogs for dinner. I also had such sensitive hearing and sensitivity to noise and touch that i refused to go outside for most of my childhood, thus not making many friends. I was bullied all through school and had very bad fits of anger that would often get me into trouble.

But through therapy and perseverance I was able to become more sociable. I am currently going into my senior year of high school with a 3.3 GPA, have become involved in four different clubs including RPG club, Japanime, Model UN, and Cru and also become involved with the Color Guard at my school where i have made the vast majority of my friends. I have also found a hobby in writing in which i have been in print twice in two different cities sharing the same story you see before you.

I know many people on the spectrum haven't been as lucky as I have and might never get the comment "You don't look autistic" when speaking of your disability but I share this story with you to give you hope. To never give up on your child and keep persevering because although times might be hard right now, I guarantee you you will look back on today and be so proud of the many accomplishments your child has done when he is in the place I am in.

You know, when i was diagnosed the doctors said I wouldn't be able to lead a meaningful life. Look who's proved them wrong.

Kayla Cribley
Fishers, IN