🔒 International Autism Summit Session-Navigating Life and Advocacy: A Professor’s Journey with Undiagnosed Autism
Description
What does it mean to truly support someone with undiagnosed autism? Our latest episode promises a journey through the eyes of a humanities professor from Metro Detroit, who has navigated the complex terrains of life and academia without the clarity of a diagnosis until the age of 41. Discover how survival skills from a challenging childhood turned into indispensable tools for creating an innovative humanities department and fostering community support. Through their storytelling, you'll hear how an Appalachian upbringing shaped their empathetic approach to teaching and organizing.
Our guest candidly shares the often-overlooked realities of living with undiagnosed autism, especially within the realms of marriage and parenthood. This episode dives deep into the personal transformations that occurred post-diagnosis, revealing how simple yet profound micro accommodations and community support played a pivotal role. The account highlights the immense energy required to "fit in," and how therapy and new coping mechanisms provided much-needed relief and understanding.
But it doesn't stop there. The discussion expands into the realm of autistic rights advocacy, where our guest's dedication to creating resources like a non-speaking communication aid is both inspiring and practical. Learn about the founding of a grassroots organization aimed at empowering the autistic community through research, advocacy, and tangible support. Finally, the episode offers a heartfelt reflection on the impact of late diagnoses on personal relationships, touching on the crucial and often silent intersection between autism and mental health. Join us for a powerful session that champions resilience, open-mindedness, and the transformative power of acceptance.
United States
