The doctors diagnosed me in June 1998. I was only two-and-a-half. They said I couldn't talk, walk, be potty-trained, and they gave my mother the recommendation of placing me in an institution. My mom stood up to that doctor and told them that she was keeping me, and her and my dad will continue to raise me no matter what. I began walking, and I was finally potty-trained and talking at four.
My childhood was filled with constant bullying, even grown adults would judge me. It was hard. Middle school was okay. I had a very small circle of friends who had my back. High school ended up being great. I had a lot of friends who loved me and would stand up for me no matter what. Then, I proved every doubter wrong by graduating high school. I'm now in college working for my Associate's Degree.
Around January 2015, I gave an oral presentation and wrote a research paper about Autism. When I saw I got 100% on both, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. I want to use my Autism to help bring insight and help people understand me more. I've been writing a blog for a year and just now started making YouTube videos to help provide insight.
My Autism is in me for the rest of my life and I accept that. But I want to use it to help other people. Yeah, I have my meltdowns, picking eating habits, and I'm still VERY afraid of an open flame, but I wouldn't change it. To me, having Autism helps me help you understand me more. To me, doing that makes me feel so good and humble that an Autistic person like me can make an impact.
Toledo, OH
