Uniquely You Magazine

09/04/2024

Congratulations to Behaviorworks ABA on their new Noblesville location

09/03/2024

🍎Check out these local events!!!! 🍎🌟

BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD — PUBLISHING ASSISTANT AND LOCAL EVENTS

Note: Don’t forget to apply for the Access Pass! The Access Pass Program allows families that meet the specific requirements listed below to visit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and all participating locations for $2 per family member per visit for up to two adults and all dependent youths living in the household. You qualify if you receive:

• Hoosier Healthwise Insurance (Indiana’s health care program for low-income families, pregnant women and children)

• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

• Apply here: https://www.childrensmuseum.org/ visit/hours/access-pass.
———————————————————————

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Museum My Way, An adaptive museum experienceOct. 9, Dec. 10, 4:00 pm-7:00 pm

Capacity limited. Registration required.

This special event is an opportunity for visitors with disabilities and/or sensory sensitivities to experience the museum in a new way. Families and groups of all abilities are welcome to play and learn together! Sensory modifications to the museum environment include:Limited capacity.

Quiet area with sensory items. Some music is turned down or off.Edited lighting effects in some areas Members: Free, Nonmembers: $6 per person/Access Pass: $2 per person. For tickets: . https://www.childrensmuseum.org/visit/calendar/event/464

First Thursday Night- First Thursday every monthSept. 5, 4:00 pm

On the first Thursday of every month, we open our doors from 4–8 p.m. for just $6 admission per person! Why should you visit?

Admission is just $6 per person for the entire museum. That’s a savings of more than 75% per ticket!

It’s the ONLY time the museum is open to the public in the evening, so it’s a perfect after-hours night for your family.

It’s not as crowded as you might think! We have limited capacity on First Thursday Nights.

Parking is always free!

Our Food Court is open, so you can grab a quick and easy dinner for the whole family. Low cost. Low crowds. Late night play! https://www.childrensmuseum.org/visit/calendar/event/273

🍎Various Events🍎

Sept.1-Sept 30, Opens at 10 AM

3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN 46208, 317-334-4000

https://www.childrensmuseum.org

Conner Prairie — Indiana’s Living History Museum

Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival

Sept.6-8

Make your fall glow with over 40 hot air balloons in the sky

Get updates about the festival by texting GLOW to 317-779-3330

For ticket prices and information https://www.connerprairie.org/conner-prairie-balloon-festival/

Sensory-Friendly Hours

The second Sunday of every month, from 10 AM to noon, are sensory-friendly hours at Conner Prairie! Enjoy a calm environment

Check-in with Guest Relations, stating that you are here for sensory-friendly hours. You will get free admission and may stay as long as you wish.

Sept.1-Sept. 30, 10:00 am- 10:00 pm

13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers, IN 46038

Phone: 317-776-6000 or 800-966-1836 https://www.connerprairie.org/events/list

Indiana State Museum

Sensory Friendly Afternoon

Sept. 15, 3:00 pm- 5:00 pm

650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204

Experience the Indiana State Museum in a sensory-friendly way! Each month, we’ll lower the lights and reduce distractions to give children and adults with sensory processing differences a chance to enjoy an interactive learning experience in a comfortable and accepting environment. Social narratives will be available at the ticket counter and sensory–based activities will be spaced throughout the museum. Plus, check out a Sensory Bag to make your experience even more enjoyable. Check calendar for dates https://www.indianamuseum.org/calendar/

Sept.1-Sept. 30 check website for events and times.

https://www.indianamuseum.org/calendar/

🍎
Sports

Indianapolis Colts
Sept. 8- Houston Texans, Sept. 22- Chicago Bears, Sept. 29- Pittsburgh Steelers

Lucas Oil Stadium, 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225 https://www.colts.com/

Indy Eleven
Sept. 14, 28

IU Michael A. Carroll Track & Soccer Stadium, 1001 W New York St. Indianapolis, IN 46202

https://www.indyeleven.com/

Indianapolis Indians
Sept. 1, 10, 11,12,13, 14,15

Victory Field, 501 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

https://www.milb.com/indianapolis/schedule/2024-03

🍎Family Fun🍎

Autism Community Connection Trivia Night

Sept. 14, Doors open at 6:00 pm

Moose Lodge 2079813 W. Smith Valley Rd., Greenwood, IN 46142

Trivia Night is great night of fun playing trivia with friends, having a delicious meal, vying for special raffle baskets, and raising money to support those affected by autism in the community! Trivia Night will have special games throughout the night like Heads and Tails, Wine Grab & Go, and more. All reservations include dinner and dessert. Table for 8 guests is $400. Individual guest tickets is $50. All guests must be over 21 years old to attend. To register: https://autismcc-in.org/trivia-night/

🌟Indianapolis Zoo🌟

ZOOBOO
Sept. 25- Oct. 31, 2:00 pm- 7:00 pm

Is regular October too humdrum, but haunted houses too creepy-crawly? Come to the Zoo for Halloween activities, amazing animals and pumpkins galore! ZooBoo is a fun family experience for itty-bitty ghouls and goblins as well as the bigger kids. October weather means active animals, colorful foliage and a new season to explore. Combine that with engaging, hands-free activities, spooktacular costumes and trick-or-treating, and you’ve got an unforgettable family tradition. Woo-hoo! For tickets and to see all events scheduled visit: https://www.indianapoliszoo.com/zoo-events/zooboo/Various events scheduled daily

Sept. 1- Sept. 30, 9:00 am- 4:00 pm

1200 West Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46222

https://www.indianapoliszoo.com/

The Studio Movie Grill

3535 W. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46268

317-315-8113

Sensory-friendly screenings of movies! Check the website for movies and times.

https://www.studiomoviegrill.com/movie/special-needs-screenings

🍎The Arts🍎

Adaptive Dance
Sept. 5, 5:00 pm- 6:00 pm Every first Thursday through May 2025

the Arc of Hancock County, 8535 N Clearview Dr, McCordsville, IN 46055

We are proud to announce that we received a mini-grant from the Community Foundation of Hancock County to turn our Adaptive Dance (Body Rock) classes from March and April into a regular monthly program. These classes will be held at Hancock Wellness Center - McCordsville in the Community Room every first Thursday of the month from August 2024 through May 2025 from 5:00-6:00pm. This class is free, but you must be registered. Parents of participants under 18 years old must be present. We cannot wait to see you there! Please use the link to register: https://arcofhcadaptivedance.eventbrite.com

Beef and Boards

Million Dollar Quartet
August 29- Oct. 6

9301 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268

https://beefandboards.com/Online/default.asp

Jubilate Choir
Butler University, Lilly Hall, Room 133
Wednesdays, 6:45-7:30 PM

The Jubilate Choir is for singers with special needs in grades 3-9. Singers with varying abilities meet each week to grow musically. This tuition-free choir focuses on proper singing techniques, music theory and sight-reading, part-singing, and social skills involved in being a member of a musical ensemble.

Though Jubilate has, at its core, the same goals as other choirs in the Indianapolis Children's Choir (ICC), singers in Jubilate engage in additional activities like visual and tactile experiences that are catered specifically to the current members of the choir.

Director: Lauren Southard

For more information, contact Lauren Southard at

317-940-8065 or [email protected]. https://icchoir.org/special-needs/

🍎
Gigi’s Playhouse
Various classes during the week.

5909 E. 86th St., Indianapolis, IN 46250 317-288-8235

[email protected] https://gigisplayhouse.org/indianapolis/sfcalendar/

🌟Events🌟

The 26th Annual DSANI Buddy Walk
Sept. 7, 9:00 am- 10:00 am

Parkview Field, 1301 Ewing St, Ft. Wayne, Indiana 46802

The Arc Advocacy Network, a program of the Arc of Indiana, will have information about Medicaid Waivers, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, guardianship and alternatives, Special Needs Trusts, the Erskine Green Training Institute, and a variety of other topics available for families and self-advocates.

The Buddy Walk is an acceptance event, celebrating our loved ones with Down syndrome! It is also DSANI’s largest fundraiser of the year – the one that sustains us from year to year. We receive no federal, state or local funding and are, instead, totally privately funded.

Registration and activities begin at 9 am; opening ceremonies follow at 9:50 am, followed by a 1.2 mile walk through downtown Fort Wayne. Once teams return to Parkview Field, there will be an epic dance party for all to enjoy!

You don’t want to miss this joy-filled, uplifting event! https://www.dsani.org/events/2024/9/14/the-26th-annual-dsani-buddy-walk

My Autism Ally Autism Acceptance Walk
Sept. 8, 12:00 pm- 3:00 pm free

Allen County Fairgrounds, 2726 Carroll Road, Ft. Wayne, IN 46818

Create a team and join us RAIN OR SHINE on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at the Allen County Fairgrounds 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46748 from noon-3:30pm. It’s an afternoon of activities and resources for the whole family- including supports for those of all ages on the autism spectrum. It’s free to park and attend so come out for the fun
food, info, vendor fair,crafts,games,music play,pony rides,petting zoo,sensory exploration,cosplay- princess and superheroestouch a truck – including first responder vehicles

This year’s unity walk will start at 3pm. The event will end after the walk is completed.

For more information and to register: https://www.myautismally.org/autism-acceptance-walk

🌟Union Jr/Sr High School Career Transition Fair
Sept. 12, 1:00 pm- 4:00 pm

Union Jr/Sr High School8707 W US Hwy 36, Modoc, IN 47358

The Arc Advocacy Network, a program of the Arc of Indiana, will have information about Medicaid Waivers, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, guardianship and alternatives, Special Needs Trusts, the Erskine Green Training Institute, and a variety of other topics available for families and self-advocates. https://www.usc.k12.in.us/jrsrhighschool_home.aspx

🌟Ask The Arc Webinars
Sept. 12, 6:00 pm- 7:00 pm

Ask The Arc webinars provide information and discussion on timely topics relevant to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and their support systems. Webinars take place on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6:00 p.m. EST. Past webinars are recorded and posted on our YouTube channel and on The Arc of Indiana Academy.

Registration is for the complete webinar series. You can pick and choose which ones you want to attend without having to register each time.

Click here to register https://www.arcind.org/event/ask-the-arc-webinars-2/2024-06-13/

🌟Ausome Fall Fest
Sept. 14, 11:00 am- 2:00 pm

Piney Acre Farm, 1115 E 1000 N, Fortville, Indiana 46040

Autism Society of Indiana, Down Syndrome Indiana and Ausome Indy present Ausome Fall Fest. Animals to Feed- Pumpkin Decorating- Gem Mining- Food- Vendor & Provider Tables- Hay Rides, Music Therapy Sessions- Bounce Platforms. RSVP: www.bit.ly/ausomefallfest

🌟Starke County Special Education Resource Fair
Sept. 18, 1:00 pm-6:00 pm

Knox High School, 1 Redskin Trail, Knox, Indiana 46534,

The goal of the Resource Fair is to provide students with disabilities and their families with information on educational and job-related services and programs that are available to assist them in planning for the future. Resource Fair will be open to the area schools and their families. https://hs.knox.k12.in.us/

🌟Indiana Walk to Defeat ALS
Sept. 21, Check-in at 8:00 am/ Walk starts at 10:00 am

Celebration Park State Fair Grounds, 202 E. 38TH ST. Indianapolis, IN 46205

The annual 2024 Walk to Defeat ALS Indiana will take place on September 21, 2024 at Celebration Park. This event is the #1 way to unite and fundraise for those living with ALS. Each year, fundraising through the Walk drives bold and urgent innovation as we march together toward a cure for ALS. To register: https://www.indianastatefair.com/events/2024/indiana-walk-to-defeat-als22

🌟HEART TO HEART VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Sept. 26
Our annual conference is an opportunity for families and professionals to learn and connect in support of children and youth who require additional health and education support. This conference is free thanks to the generosity of Heart to Heart sponsors. Visit this site regularly for updates, to view the agenda and more! If you have questions or want to learn more about the event or ways to get involved, contact our team. Registration is open! https://www.inf2f.org/heart-to-heart-conference.html

🌟Central Indiana Disability Resource Fair
Sept. 28, 1:00 am- 2:00 pm

Ivy Tech Community College Indianapolis, 2820 N Meridian St,Indianapolis, IN 46208

The Arc Advocacy Network, a program of the Arc of Indiana, will have information about Medicaid Waivers, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, guardianship and alternatives, Special Needs Trusts, the Erskine Green Training Institute, and a variety of other topics available for families and self-advocates. https://www.arcind.org/event/central-indiana-disability-resource-fair/

🍎SibShops
Sept. 28, 5:30 pm- 8:00

Shirley Brothers Irving Hill Chapel, 5377 East Washington Street,Indianapolis, IN 46219

Sibshops® is a fun-filled event geared toward specific needs of siblings with a brother/sister with special health and developmental needs.Siblings have the opportunity to meet other siblings in a relaxed, recreational setting. There is an opportunity to discuss common joys and concerns with others. Siblings have the opportunity to learn about disabilities and the implications for the future growth and challenges AGES: 6 to 13 year-olds and 14 to 18 year-olds. Youth will be placed in an age-appropriate group for a portion of the workshop. To register: https://www.creativepathwaysindy.org/sibshops/

https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy/docs/sep_2024_uniquely_you_indy_web/s/56249336

Note: Don’t forget to apply for the Access Pass! The Access Pass Program allows families that meet the specific requirements listed below to visit The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and all participating locations for $2 per family member per visit for up to two adults and all dependent youth...

09/01/2024

🌻🌻Welcome to the September issue of Uniquely You! 🌟

Pages 16-18 Featured Family:
Meet the Trobaugh Family

Page 19 Save the Date: Miles
Ahead Fundracing!

Pages 20-21 Sponsor Spotlight:@
MJanus Developmental Services, Inc.n (MDFF)

Page 24 What's Happening at Janus Developmental Services, Inc. Volunteering at Janus

Pages 26-27 Nonprofit Spotlight:
Indiana Checkers Blind Hockey

Pages 28-30 Meet the Vescelus Family

Pages 32-33 Single Mommas Seen:
Brand New: Starting Over Again

Pages 34-35 Pastor's Corner: A Legacy of Service: Pioneering Christian Disability
Ministries in the United States

Page 36 Sensory Blurb!

Adaptive Feeding Items
Pages 38-41 Local Events

A monthly magazine for the Special Needs Community - Written by individuals and families with Special Needs - Personal stories that will Inspire, Connect & give Hope to others in the Special Needs Community!! To share a story visit https://linktr.ee/uniquelyyouindiana

08/28/2024

Share this with all your favorite teachers!

A heartfelt thank you to all the special education teachers for your dedication, compassion, and tireless work. You inspire growth, celebrate every achievement, and make a lasting difference in your students' lives. The joy of helping students discover their unique strengths and watching them overcome challenges with resilience makes every small victory feel like a huge success.
Send us your photo and a brief caption about what you love most about being a special education teacher!

All submissions need to be in by October 15th

Please click the link to complete this form.

08/27/2024

You're Invited to the Uniquely You Magazine & Carter's Play Place Community Fun & Resource Fair! Free Event!!

🗓️ Date: October 25th
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Carter's Play Place 1021 Kendall Ct, Westfield, IN 46074

Join us for a fantastic evening dedicated to the disability community! Uniquely You and Carter's Play Place are excited to host a Community Fun & Resource Fair that welcomes individuals, families, DSPs, caregivers, and supporters of all ages.

Event Highlights:

Connect with other families and community members
Enjoy an afternoon of fun with exciting activities
Discover valuable resources and support from various organizations
Free admission courtesy of Carter's Play Place
This event is a wonderful opportunity to engage with your community and explore resources that can make a difference in your life.

🔗 Reserve Your Spot: https://buytickets.at/uniquelyyou/1358218

Don’t miss out on this enjoyable and informative event! We look forward to seeing you there and sharing a memorable evening together.

Let’s connect, have fun, and support each other! 🎉

Location
Carter's Play Place, 1021 Kendall Ct, Westfield, IN 46074

You're Invited to the Uniquely You & Carter's Play Place Community Fun & Resource Fair! 🗓️ Date: October 25th⏰ Time: 4...

08/19/2024

Trusting in God’s Plan: Surrendering Control for a Purposeful Life

BY PAUL HATHCOAT

In a world where we’re constantly encouraged to take control of our destinies and shape our futures, it can be incredibly challenging to let go and trust in something greater than ourselves. Yet, as Christians, we are called to surrender our lives to God’s will, trusting that His plans for us are good, even when we can’t see the bigger picture. This act of surrender is not a sign of weakness but of profound faith and strength. Let’s explore why giving up control and trusting the Lord is essential for a meaningful and fulfilling life, from a pastor’s perspective.

THE ILLUSION OF CONTROL

Have you ever meticulously planned your day, week, or even year, only to have everything fall apart? It’s a frustrating and humbling experience. Despite our best efforts, life often doesn’t go as planned. This is where Proverbs 19:21 offers wisdom: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” We may believe we’re in control, but ultimately, it is God’s plan that will unfold.

Reflect for a moment: How often do you stress about the future? How often do you try to control every detail of your life?

EMBRACING GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY

Understanding and accepting God’s sovereignty can be transformative. Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God’s plans for us are inherently good, filled with hope and promise. When we surrender control, we open ourselves up to the blessings He has in store.

Consider this: What would it look like to truly trust that God’s plans are better than your own? How would it change your daily decisions and your outlook on life?

THE PEACE OF LETTING GO

When we relinquish control, we experience a profound sense of peace. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This peace comes from knowing that our lives are in the hands of a loving and omnipotent God.

Reflect on this: What areas of your life are causing you the most anxiety? How might surrendering these worries to God bring you peace?

TRUSTING WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING

One of the most challenging aspects of faith is trusting without understanding. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Our limited perspective often prevents us from seeing the grand tapestry God is weaving. It’s in these moments of uncertainty that our faith is tested and strengthened.

Think about this: When was the last time you faced a situation you didn’t understand? How did you respond? Did you lean on your own understanding, or did you trust in God?

Think about this: When was the last time you faced a situation you didn’t understand? How did you respond? Did you lean on your own understanding, or did you trust in God?

LEARNING FROM BIBLICAL EXAMPLES

The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who trusted God despite uncertain circumstances. Take Joseph, for example. Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned, Joseph’s life seemed to be a series of unfortunate events. Yet, he remained faithful to God. In the end, God used Joseph to save an entire nation from famine (Genesis 50:20). Joseph’s story teaches us that even when life seems unfair, God is at work for our good.

Reflect on Joseph’s story: Can you see areas in your life where God might be working behind the scenes, even if you can’t understand why things are happening the way they are?

THE REWARD OF FAITH

Surrendering control and trusting God is not always easy, but it comes with great rewards. Romans 8:28 promises, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” When we trust God, we align ourselves with His divine purpose, opening the door to blessings and opportunities we could never have imagined on our own.

Ask yourself: Are you ready to give up control and trust in God’s perfect plan for your life? So now what?

Letting go of control and trusting in God’s plan requires faith and courage. It means believing that God’s plans are good, even when we don’t understand them. As we surrender our lives to Him, we find peace, purpose, and the assurance that He is working all things together for our good. So, take a deep breath, let go, and trust in the Lord with all your heart. Your life, guided by His loving hands, will be richer and more meaningful than you could ever imagine. Blessings to you all!

BY PAUL HATHCOAT

08/17/2024

Local Nonprofits!

Join us for a day of learning, collaborating and networking amongst leaders of non-profit organizations throughout the state of Indiana that support individuals with disabilities! Email [email protected] for the registration link.

08/15/2024

Milestones:
Moving Forward: Meet Kelsey Green

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

Milestones mark a significant moment in a person’s life. They signify growth, transformation, and progress from one stage to another. For individuals in the exceptional needs community, milestones carry an even deeper meaning. These moments celebrate personal achievements, selfacceptance, and resilience. Milestones also encompass self advocacy, self discovery, and the power of supportive connections. No one knows this more than 32-year-old Fishers native Kelsey Green who moved into her very first apartment in March of 2024. For her, the move represented more than just a change of address. It symbolized her road to independence.

“I moved into my own apartment because I felt I was ready to be on my own,” said Kelsey.

Her supportive parents, Jeff and Beverly Green, helped Kelsey find her comfy one-bedroom apartment, which is close to their home and her job at Goodwill Industries. The spacious apartment features neutral white walls that absorb the sunlight streaming in through the bedroom windows and the sliding glass patio door. Beautifully framed photographs are showcased throughout the apartment. Kelsey also has an adorable, furry roommate, a chinchilla named Snowball, which she takes care of.

Although Kelsey admits living on her own took some getting used to, once she settled in, she grewmore comfortable with her newfound independence.

“Once I started staying here more, I started to enjoy it it; it’s a nice place to live and I have friends who live across the street from me.”

Kelsey enjoys having friends she met through Best Buddies, Thrive Social Club, and Special Olympics, over to her new apartment for ice cream on the patio or to share a meal.

Her approach to living by herself was a big part of helping her get adjusted. Kelsey hasn’t deviated from her previous routine. She has taken ownership by arranging her belongings, such as her pictures, throughout her home, getting a new couch for her living room, and decorating her bedroom with multicolored LED string lights. Kelsey even makes sure her eating habits are in check.

“I’m trying to eat healthier by not having junk food in my place,” said Kelsey. “No sweets, no junk.”

She offered these words of advice for those with exceptional needs who want to move into their own place:

“When you move out on your own for the first time, you will get nervous and homesick. But once you get into a routine and live in your place longer, it gets easier.”

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

08/13/2024

What's HAppening at Janus Inc?!

Janus has been offering our pre-employment transition service (pre-ETS) in the local high schools for over two years now. Pre-ETS helps families as they start the process of transitioning their loved ones from school into the next stage of life and has been a huge success. We are in the Noblesville, Carmel and Westfield school systems.

The primary focus of pre-ETS is to assist students with disabilities in making informed choices about their vocational and educational options for life after high school by providing them with information and firsthand experiences that address the five areas of service. These five areas are job exploration and counseling, work-based learning, workplace readiness, self-advocacy, and post-secondary counseling. Our career coach, Erin Kim, will also provide students with information about vocational rehabilitation services and will assist students and families with the referral process.

Janus has been offering our pre-employment transition service (pre-ETS) in the local high schools for over two years now. Pre-ETS helps families as they start the process of transitioning their loved ones from school into the next stage of life and has been a huge success. We are in the Noblesville,...

08/07/2024

BITTERSWEET:
The Day I Was Diagnosed with Autism

BY M.S. ROSE

I did not realize that receiving my autism diagnosis would be the biggest relief of my life as well as the thing I felt I would have to hide from the world. The most influential event in my life is the day I was diagnosed with autism because it changed my life forever. For me, autism is like being a part of an orchestra playing the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and you have the sheet music for Beethoven’s 5th Symphony. You are proficient in playing the symphony, but you are criticized for playing the wrong music, yet you are clueless as to what your error is because this is the only sheet music you were given. Unfortunately, while most people with autism are diagnosed at an early age, I was not. I was diagnosed at age 10, so I had less time to re-learn how to do things and receive interventions.

When my parents decided to move our family from Oregon to Indiana, they found many more resources here for children with neurological disorders. My brother was diagnosed with autism at age 4, and he became the primary focus of my parents at the time.

Once my brother was properly diagnosed and interventions were started, my parents were able to focus on me. I had several typical characteristics and symptoms, but my parents did not want me labeled because I seemed to do fine academically and they were already devastated by my brother’s diagnosis. However, despite my academic success, I screamed basically all the time, was highly sensitive to sounds, would only eat mac-n-cheese, and was considered a “bad kid” by other people. My sound sensitivity was so bad that the clanking of silverware together caused me to grind my teeth. So, my parents took me to a neuropsychologist for testing. I went through an extensive battery of tests. They included tests for memory, hearing sensitivity, questions regarding my social interactions, and my emotions. The results showed without a doubt that I had autism. Autism is considered a spectrum disorder and I fit the “higher functioning” end of the spectrum. This is not a term that I align myself with because it makes me feel like I am expected to be “better” than the “average” person with autism, but it is the way it is described typically and medically. So, I had to adapt to my new life.

After receiving my diagnosis, I became more critical of my mannerisms and actions. This included “normal” things such as the way I spoke, which was in a monotone voice, the way I wrote anything, and the fact that I was very blunt when expressing my opinion. I learned to mask my symptoms for fear of falling into the stereotype surrounding people with autism. The typical stereotype is either an individual who is completely helpless and unaware of their surroundings, or a savant who has amazing abilities and a completely analytical brain. I am neither of those. Unfortunately, people I have encountered often project one of those stereotypes on me. Some have even tried to separate my autism from me by claiming that I am smart only because of my autism, and not because I am actually smart despite my autism. I am not a helpless person, and I am not a savant. I still struggle with masking my identity, but that is based upon which characteristics I am either trying to share or hide. I am just me, who is an individual who happens to have autism and is not ashamed of who I am.

Being diagnosed with autism changed my life in a bittersweet way. I am proud of who I am, but still struggle with accepting all that the autism diagnosis encompasses. I know that I do not fit into the typical stereotype, and I embrace that.

I could have chosen to write about other things in my life, but wanted to share the story of my autism diagnosis because it is paramount to who I am. Sharing other parts of my life never feels as authentic as talking about my autism diagnosis. When you have been in the orchestra forever, you learn how to adapt and play your own tune.

BY M.S. ROSE