Note that this article contains a discussion on functioning labels, medical bias against autistics, and similar topics in the autism community. One of the most common questions I get when I mention being autistic is “So, you’re really high functioning?” Yikes. As I’ve mentioned before, functioning labels aren’t really my thing - or most of the … Continue reading A Label on Functionality Labels
The Case for Identity-first
[Note: this post is specifically in regard to the autism community. As an aside, the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community also prefers identity-first. However, many other disability communities still prefer person-first. Remember that some people on the spectrum may actually prefer person-first, and it's always nice to ask. However, general consensus in the autism community is … Continue reading The Case for Identity-first
Dysautonomia Awareness Month!
Update: since this post, I have been to Vanderbilt's Autonomic Dysfunction Clinic! Not surprisingly, I was diagnosed with Hyperadrenergic Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Make noise for turquoise! Actually, maybe not too much noise. I'm in a bit of a quiet mood today. Dysautonomia: an umbrella term for medical conditions that cause a malfunction in … Continue reading Dysautonomia Awareness Month!
Explaining Autism: With Cats
Most of us have heard the saying "All cats are autistic." Usually it's meant as a joke, but there is a hint of truth to it. I see a lot of behaviors in my cat that I recognize in myself. In explaining what autism is, I've found referencing the difference between cats and dogs to … Continue reading Explaining Autism: With Cats
The Communication and Spoon Board
Note: spoons in this context refer to energy available to use in a given day. I am very fond of what's called the spoon theory, and I use it often to help describe how I'm feeling. In the beginning of college, I developed something I called the 'Spoons Board.' As my roommate and I were … Continue reading The Communication and Spoon Board
Stim Toys and Fidgets Workshop: A Recap
Update: I now have a .pdf file that condenses this post if needed! You can find it here: Stim Toys and Fidgets Workshop Now this is the content I signed up for. Allow me to utilize this special interest for the next few hours. A while back, I hosted a Stim Toy and Fidgets Workshop … Continue reading Stim Toys and Fidgets Workshop: A Recap
Diagnosis Story Time!
Getting a diagnosis. Seems fairly straightforward, right? You take your kid in to see the doctor, the doctor refers them, and then - voila- diagnosis time! At least, that's what people always assume. Me, not so much. I was always a "weird" kid growing up. I took things literally, constantly asked questions that everyone somehow already understood, … Continue reading Diagnosis Story Time!
