Managing Autism - A Personal View

Thought for today: 

“You are happiest and most content when you value and appreciate the uniqueness of what you are and what you’re experiencing - without needing to compare it with anything else.”

(Paul Wilson, “A Piece of the Quiet”)

Recently my mum, Geraldine, organised a fundraising event to raise money for organisations supporting autism.  We held a morning of pampering where guests were treated to facials, foot spas, hand treatments, massages and reiki.

This post is in thanks to my mum and the 4 other wonderful ladies, Katherine, Jacinta, Shannon and Cynthia, who so generously gave of their time to ‘pamper’ our guests.  It is also in thanks to the group of beautiful ladies who so generously gave donations to the cause.

A fabulous time was had by all - indulging in total relaxation, champagne and scrumptious finger food.

We had the opportunity to share Jack’s story, and the story of what many families face when living with autism.  We highlighted some of the challenges that parents and families face, but we also celebrated the many wonderful things that people with autism bring to our lives.

Our goal was to raise understanding and awareness of autism in a positive way, and at the same time raise some money to help families - goal achieved!

Elissa

All too often we look at and talk about the challenging aspects of people with Aspergers Syndrome.  But the positive qualities of a person with Aspergers Syndrome (AS) are endless.  The following are just a few of the wonderful traits that you are likely to find in a person with AS.

A person with AS will see a task through to completion - particularly if it is within an area of interest to them.  They will be dedicated and committed, working on regardless of whatever else is happening around them.

A person with AS will be extemely loyal.  If you have a friend with AS, you will likely have them for life, and they will stand by you and look out for you always.

A person with AS will be highly observant.  They ask questions constantly (again, particularly if they are interested in a topic) and as such will always be learning and discovering new things.

A person with AS will usually display an incredible attention to detail.  They will remember the things that most people forget, and whatever field of work they may be involved in, will usually produce amazing results.

A person with AS will usually be rational rather than emotional.  They will always be the one who is calm in a crisis.  They think logically and with reason.

It is often easy to get caught up in the negative aspects of life, but there are many wonderful and positive aspects of having Aspergers Syndrome - we just need to appreciate them more often!