[happygav89]

Hello.
My name is Gavin and I am 20 years old.
Last fall I was diagnosed with Autism.
My parents were told all my life to get me tested for it but they were insulted by
the statements. The schools I was in were always testing me in cold rooms asking me "what color is this?" or "What does this look like?"
I still don't understand that. Although, it was hard to accept at first, it makes alot of sense and explains ALOT. My mom says that when I was little I never crawled. I went from sitting to standing and holding onto things and later taught myself how to walk.
I always had it tough in school and never knew what to do when people messed with me.
Still today, people are constantly asking me if I'm a "retard". I just brush it off now. They're the ones who need their brains checked. Why would you ask someone that?
I don't understand alot of things. It's hard for me to explain to my friends that I don't know when they're joking or not because I think differently, but I NEVER use it as an excuse. I'm just an average 20 year old to me.
Anyway....I thought I'd share.

Gavin

[Julie]

Hi Gavin

Welcome to the site.  Thank you for sharing your story with us.  It is a very interesting story, although it did make me feel quite sad to think that you have had a tough time.  Retard is such a horrible word and should never be used to describe anyone let alone an Autistic person.  But sometimes, people just don't know how to behave when confronted with Autism and resort to childish behaviour.

You may not be able to understand a lot of things now, but don't give up because there are ways and means to learn and understand.  You are an intelligent guy and you just have to find your niche in life.

Good luck and stay in touch with us on Special Families.

[paula]

Hi Gavin!

Thank you for joining our forum and sharing your story. It sounds as though you are a very thoughtful person. My little boy also gets muddled and does not understand when people are joking but that is OK. Would really like for you to post some more on our Forum.

Paula

[Speeds]

Hi Gavin

Thank you for posting.  We are all here because we all have very special needs - sometimes very dfferent to others in society.

One thing I would say is please do not be afraid to ask for help if you feel you need it.  There is never any shame or humiliation in asking for help  - although most of us are very bad at doing so. 

xx