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Claire’s story

#NowIKnow Claire's story…

 

My son received an autism diagnosis five years ago and I recognised many traits in myself. My family joked about us being very much the same. In December 2021 at the grand age of 48 I received an autism diagnosis. It has made sense of the struggles I had growing up and sensory struggles with food. I am keen to get rid of some of the stereotypes associated with a diagnosis. I use my special interest in hedgehogs for my wildlife rescue based in my home!

"It has made sense of the struggles I had growing up and sensory struggles with food."

I missed lots of time from school with sickness caused by anxiety. I didn’t really have a group of friends and didn’t understand why people didn’t like me. I have struggled with keeping jobs because I don’t understand something and the employers just didn’t get me, causing me to walk away. I have found the best employer, who appreciates the organisational skills that I have! They know about my autism and are supportive.

Our autism does not always present in the same way as men! We are different! We need a different way of being diagnosed and for better awareness, acceptance and empowering others to get their diagnosis and support.

"We need a different way of being diagnosed and for better awareness, acceptance and empowering others to get their diagnosis and support."

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Now I Know

Late diagnosis in women and non binary people.

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Now I Know is a place to share different experiences and viewpoints. Opinions expressed are those of the person sharing their story, and this does not indicate they are the views of the National Autistic Society.

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