Chandler’s Story – Autism Awareness Month

I was diagnosed with High-Functioning Autism when I was ten years old. Having Autism has been difficult, to say the least. Learning the nuances of language, social interaction, basic social skills has been a massive challenge and process. I attended numerous groups, met with many therapists and psychologists in order to help supplement my process of learning various skills. As a result of superb educators, supporting parents, and resources made available to students with disabilities, I have been able to graduate high school, serve a full-time ecclesiastical mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, make it into a nursing college, and have the opportunity to work at a hospital for those dealing with mental illnesses. With access to resources and with help from those of understanding and empathy I would say that I have been able to find means to achieve my goals and dreams. With gratefulness, I believe that I have been able to move forward away from “you will never succeed because you have autism” to because and despite having autism I can succeed in what I desire and become a support for others who are struggling with mental disorders. I have learned Autism does not define who I am; it is what I have done with it that has defined who I am as a person. Anyone with support and empathy can find direction and hope despite their difficulties.