My journey of late diagnosis autism raising 2 beautiful autistic children
My Story - A&D
I have always know I was different, that I struggled to belong or be able to function as other people could. At 35 years old I made the difficult decision to have children without a partner. 3 years later by then 23 month old second child was diagnosed with Autism level 3,3. 6 months later my daughter would be diagnosed with autism level 2,2 at the age of 4. It would be another 3 year later that I would prioritise my own needs and was diagnosed with autism level 2,2 at the age of 41 years old.
Since my son's diagnosis I have come to understand that I knew nothing but damaging stereotypes about autism. I have learnt so much about being autistic, overcoming the challenges it creates and my opinions on autism, autism therapies and myths and dialogue have changed greatly throughout the years. I am not perfect, I do not have all the answers. But I know that each autistic is a different as a fingerprint and needs to be listened to and valued for their own unique autistic profile and presentation. What I share here - is everything I have learnt. My wording and opinion may change overtime to reflect what I have learnt. Please always talk to the professionals and autistic experts in your life who know you well to determine if any of what you learn here is valid and useful for you.
I wish you the best for your journey as an autistic person or someone supporting the autistic community.
Much Love, A & D.
Autistic and Determined - A&D
My Daughter - IV- (nicknamed) -Ivy
My Son - CRE - (nickname )-Cha Cha
Education
2015-2022
DSF and Autism Specialised Courses
2013
University of Western Australia
2012
University of Western Australia
2002
Edith Cowan University
Specialised training in education of Learning difficulties and impairments including Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, ADHD and Autism.
Masters of Education - specialising in curriculum, assessment and leadership
Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership
Bachelor of Education Secondary - Major Social Science - Sociology and History, Minor - English, Specialisation Pathway - English
1997
Edith Cowan University
Bachelor of Social Science - Youth Work - incomplete - 2 years of 3 year course.
About Me
Where Do I live?
What do I do?
What are my special interests?
I live in Western Australia with my family
I run my own tutoring and education consulting business, using my role as a specialist intervention teacher to help students with learning disabilities and difficulties. I also advocate for neurodiverse families and individulas.
I have many special interests including singing, science fiction, fantasy, neurodiversity, sociology, superheroes and history.
I love StarWars, Marvel, Stargate, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings