My life so far on the autism spectrum...
Hi! I'm Will, I’m from the UK, and I am autistic. I wasn't diagnosed until I was about 14-15 when it became clear that I couldn't cope in mainstream education any longer. I wasn't socializing very well and the style of teaching wasn't working for me. The final straw was being severely beaten up by another student, and the decision was made for me to find another school that would be more beneficial to my needs. After being formally diagnosed at Great Ormond Street Hospital I was able to get into Treetops, a school for children with learning difficulties. The difference between this school and the mainstream one was night and day. I really felt like I had found my people and started to excel in my education. I was later given the role of head boy which allowed me to help and encourage other students at the school with their work. I stayed at Treetops into sixth form and didn't want to leave. They seemed to value life skills over academic education, skills such as cooking a meal or budgeting for bills, all of which are just as important in life as academics. Once I left Treetops, I went to University to study Media and Film Production. I dropped out of University in my final year due to a mental health breakdown. I hope to someday go back and complete my degree. In later years I worked in retail mostly and currently work at a cinema.
Film has always been a big interest of mine and so to be able to talk to customers every day about the latest release is something I really enjoy. Of course, seeing films for free is also a nice perk of the job. Outside of work, I am involved with Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions, an adult social care provider that supports people in the community with learning difficulties. When my family decided to move away from the area, I came into contact with TLS. They provided me with my own flat for independent living. Suddenly all the independence skills I learned at Treetops would be put to good use. I've now lived in my flat for three years and am involved I'm various community groups thanks to TLS. I work on a podcast called "Local Life" which goes out on TCBR radio, a local community radio station. Furthermore, I currently write children's books raising awareness of autism. My first book "The Sensory Zoo" was self-published on Amazon in September 2023 and has received a great response. The aim was for those on the spectrum who may have sensory issues to be able to recognize themselves through the various animals at the zoo who have sensory issues. In addition to being a podcaster and author, I am now officially an Oliver Macgowan trainer which means I can now teach health officials the proper ways of treating those on the spectrum when they enter the hospital or go to see a doctor. Sensory issues, communication, and many different things should be taken into consideration when health officials are dealing with people on the spectrum. To wrap up, I am currently working on my second book which I hope to release soon. The dream is for a three-book series all about raising awareness and for children on the spectrum to have a book they can relate to.
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