The other day, someone said to me "it's so inspiring that you're overcoming your autism!" Not surprisingly, I hear this one a lot. "Overcoming" autism. "Despite" the autism. "Fighting" autism. "Don't forget; you're a person with autism." It's something that always throws me off, really. It's as if autism is supposed to be a roommate - you know, the … Continue reading No, I’m Not “Overcoming” Autism
Managing and Preventing Meltdowns
This past Saturday, I was given the opportunity to speak at the Autism Society of East Tennessee's Autism Educational Conference. I felt a bit out of place (most of the people there were neurotypical), but that's okay. My topic that I presented on was the management and prevention of meltdowns, as well as how to … Continue reading Managing and Preventing Meltdowns
Positive Thinking
I'm currently preparing for my session at an Autism conference, and my anxiety levels are through the roof. I'm covering how to best manage/prevent meltdowns, and ironically, I feel close to having one myself. My last few posts have also been a bit serious, especially with it being Autism Acceptance Month and finals coming up … Continue reading Positive Thinking
When You’re Afraid of Autism Awareness Month
Content note: this post may be upsetting for some, especially for my fellow autistics who also are anxious about April. Also a brief mention of mental health issues and depression. And of course, April is 'Autism Awareness Month.' I'm already cringing inside. The urge to burrow underneath my weighted blanket until May is honestly very tempting. … Continue reading When You’re Afraid of Autism Awareness Month
Autism Speaks: We’re not listening to you.
I imagined I'd make an eventual post on my disdain for Autism Speaks eventually. While all the chants of "Light it up blue" and puzzle pieces surround us as April approaches, I'm already covering my ears. Surely by now, people are aware of the horrid things Autism Speaks is responsible for. Right? ...apparently not. If … Continue reading Autism Speaks: We’re not listening to you.
#StopTheShock
As I type this, there is a large gathering of people assembled outside in D.C. You may have not heard, but the disability rights' organization ADAPT has been fighting relentlessly for the FDA to ban the torture on people with disabilities. The Judge Rotenberg Center, in the middle of it all, is notorious for its … Continue reading #StopTheShock
Conferences, Midterms, and Naps
It's official: I made it through half a semester! Luckily for me, that means it's officially Spring Break. Not that I'm actually on a break; I have things to do. I'm hoping that I can take the week to plan things and such. Our Neurodiversity Club is doing things for Autism Acceptance Month, I'm still … Continue reading Conferences, Midterms, and Naps
