I was diagnosed with Autism at 2 years old. It took me until the age of 4 to talk and function. Teachers and students at School snubbed me and thought that I was not going to make it. Thankfully, I had a support system within my Mother, sister, and grandmother. I was constantly teased from ages 4-18, I was called retarded and various other derogatory names. Along with dealing Autism, I am also a gay male who came to terms at the age of 20. I hated going to School everyday, I begged my Mother to drop out of school every chance I got. My social skills were below sub-par, I was abused in every way that was possible. I come from a large immediate and extended family which helped improve my social skills. Being apart of the LBGT Community has also improved my social behaviors, but some ways its like being in School all over again when I am teased or ignored. In 2011, I lost everything that I owned and had to file Chapter 7 Bankruptcy which was a devastating experience. After losing everything and filing bankruptcy, I decided to work hard to accomplish my GED having dropped out of High School 10 years prior. A trip to South Florida and being in the GED program has helped me come to terms with being Autistic. In-spite of having autism, I am able to drive a vehicle, work a job, attend School, have friends, and do things other can do. Over the last 18 months, I started to believe in myself again and once I achieve my GED I plan to go back to School in pursuit of a career in Law. I also plan to live in South Florida and attend events at Autism speaks where I hope my story will inspire someone and give people with autism hope and drive.

Anonymous
Wilmington, DE