I was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome when I was six-years-old after countless of doctor visits and messages being told I would amount to very little. I was told, from the time I was young, that I would not graduate high school, I would have to live in a group home, and would need medical care the rest of my life. My life would be revolved around a doctor's office and a behavioral psychologists chair. I wouldn't take that news sitting down on my palms, accepting that. I graduated high school in 2010 and went on to start my freshman year of college. I've had some setbacks, I won't lie, but my life is truly incredible. I'm a voice not only for those within the Autism community but I've become a voice for LGBT with disabilities. I am set to graduate in 2016, I have a 17 month old son who makes my heart warm, and am dating a person who knows when my emotions cloud my judgment and doesn't autism be an excuse for me. My family has never taken my autism as a setback. They say I've opened their eyes. They've opened mine. They let me know I can be me in a world that often tries to kill your shine. I would never trade or let go of autism. Autism is a part of me. It's hard, yes, when people find out and they treat me different, but it gives me a chance make them see I'm not dumb or slow or anything like that; I'm a fully functioning human being with a heart and brain that work properly just like theirs; just a little more quirky than them. My message of hope is this; autism is an amazing and eye-opening thing. Don't judge the book by an overly produced stereotype. We are humans just like you. We have brains that think and hearts that love. Never let something like autism cloud your judgment. You'll miss a chance to an eye-opening experience. I guarantee it.

Megan Weatherford
Delaware, OH