My story

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So I thought I would share my story so far in case it helps anyone.

Ever since I was young I had always been seen as different however I was always so quite nobody realised I had autism

I was diagnosed when I was arundel 13-14 and struggled with the late diagnosis. I had difficulty accepting I was different and grieved for my lost chance at a normal life. I also felt that I would never be able to get married, have a job or have children because I wouldn't be able to cope.

Around the same time I found out that my uncle (who I had always disliked and avoided) was sexually abusing my much loved cousin and also was part of a paedophile ring on the Internet. This news destroyed me as I felt I had let my cousin down. I had always felt something off about him and wish I had realised. Now I know there was no way I could have predicted it.

The thought of being even slightly related to this man made my blood feel like poison. My cousin and her younger brothers moved away and relocated in secret. Although my mother, brother and I had cut off my uncle completely due to our blood relation we were still cut off from my cousins. These were people I was extremely close with.

On top of this I started getting bullied at school and had multiple meltdowns. However the kids only found these funny which sunk me further into my depression. I continually refused to go to school and pretended to be ill. It got to a point where I actually started to feel ill and have panic attacks from even the idea of school.

The school tried get me to come in at one point even telling my mother to just walk of and leave me when I was having a panic attack and couldnt breathe. My mother of course refused and took me home.

At her wit's end and fearful of continuing to force me to go to school she contacted the national autistic society for advice. I was labeled as a school refuser and given only 5 hours a week to study with tutors for my gcses.

I became a recluse, frightened to even leave the house. I suffered with major depression and slept all the time. It was when I developed suicidal thought my mother forced me to see a mental health nurse. Her name was Joe and even now I'm glad I met her. Wit the combined work of Joe and my mother they helped me get better, got me to push myself each day.

It took time but I took my exams and signed up for a college course where I made friends who didn't care about my autism. In fact they were interested by it. After achieving the highest grade available I went on to university.

At university I truly found myself. I met my 2 best friends who have become like sisters to me. I also met the man I am sure I will marry. I am due to graduate on the 20th with a degree in human bioscience and will go on to get my PhD.

I hope this helps some of you who can relate to show there is a chance for you. Also if you wish to ask me anything go ahead

'Tis a lovely story, indeed

It's a pity you were cut off from your cousins because of your uncle's dirty deeds.

Thanks so much for sharing your story! I understand you want to continue your schooling but don't give up on getting married and having a family someday if that's what you want. My husband loves me just as I am. We've been married 41 years. You may find someone like that too. We never had any kids but that was due to me having endometriosis. Congrats on your graduation!

*claps hands*

I'm happy you found your way out of those dark times, and developed relationships with those who can see past the labels. Hopefully, someday, "success stories" like ours will go away - because success will be the standard and not the exception.

It is a really beautiful story, and just goes to show that a little help can go a long way.

So good to hear that you are enjoying life

Thanks for posting it. I am sure many can relate to the derailment experience, and a lot of people are in a state of despondency. One can get thru it. You are an example of that.

If I was 21, and in your program, I would probably have developed a crush on you.

Hey Alliekit welcome.

Welcome to Wrong Planet!