Yes Merry, my love, I am one of the most verbal Auties you will ever meet. I started speaking in full sentences when I was only six months old. I am an odd old bird. Diagnosed much later in life with ADHD. Medicine helped, but there was still something I couldn't quite put my finger on. And I had a degree in Psychology, worked directly under a school system Psychologist, and was asked to be the Director for the School System Autism Unit/Program.

I had always wondered why I had such an affinity for the children in my care who were on the Autism Spectrum. It seemed as if I was being guided by an unseen force to do the right tbing, make the right choices, and invent a plan to accommodate my kid's needs. I questioned if I was just appropriating their symptoms.

But looking back at my life, which was almost a photographic memory experience, I knew. The kicker was when I learned that most other people did not think in pictures like I do. It was astounding to me. Like a lightning bolt from heaven.

I help a bit on one of the Autism sites we have here at Mayo Clinic Connect. I concentrate primarily on the "feels", the encouragement, and support for those of my tribe who are adults and feel they have no safe place to be where they can just be themselves.

If anyone is on the Spectrum, they know they are welcome here. When I "talk " to people on that discussion group, I imagine it like a virtual coffee shop. Warm and cozy. Helpful, calming, and accepting. Hopefully, it will eventually be that place for orhers.

Thanks for all your good words today! Enjoyed our time together very much.

Mamacita