Asperger’s Syndrome, Disability or Different Ability?

» Red - ability or disability...

I especially like the following statement:

Each of us has unique ability that although at times applied differently, when accepted, understood and valued ...

I do know 2 adults with AS very well and just met a third yesterday. People with AS have many talents that NT people do not. They are definitely gifted and if they look at their differences as gifts and blessings, they will go far in this world.

Though I do know adults with AS, my experience has been mainly with my grandson, who has it. Please follow the link to read how he feels about his AS. The article focuses on AS and stress, but he has brought forth some very good points. Enjoy!

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/1884...

-- posted by Red

» ajmm - Response to Red re grandson's writing/Disability or Different A

Thanks for your support here and all you've shared about your interest in AS and your grandson.

I read his article with great interest. He is very good with words and very good at expressing himself.

As an adult with Asperger's and diagnosed at the age of 40 I envy and cherish your grandson's insight and knowledge at such a young age and the fact that he is already learning things that will help him cope in life that those of us who are adults when diagnosed struggle to play catch-up with and in a world that gives little to no support or services to adults with Asperger's.

I am just learning more right now about when I need space and why - as your grandson explains he's learning at his young age, and how to ask for it.

I hope more adults who find this site will read his article and that other aspie kids will too.
He is very bright and has a lot of insight to offer.

Thanks for posting the url. Tell your grandon hello from me, for me

A.J.

-- posted by ajmm

» Red - Re: Response to Red re grandson's writing/Disability or Differe

AJ,

Sorry I was so long replying to your post. I know how difficult it must be for Aspies who are diagnosed as adults. In the last two years, Brandon has come a long way. He is learning to cope with his AS and hopefully, as the doctors tell us, by the time he is an adult, he will have a very good knowledge of his disorder.

My hubby took Brandon and his brother, along with my Mom, on an 11 day car trip to Florida this month. I thought that Brandon would have a melt down or two while he was gone, and was prepared for it. We took his identification along and I planned to use it at Guest Services at Disney World. They offer a quiet place for people with disabilities and disorders. When we got there, I told Brandon we had to go to Guest Services. He told me he would be fine and didn't need to go. He was right. He seems to know how well he can cope in certain situations. He did magnificent and didn't have even one melt down while we were gone. Everyone was amazed!

Thank you for keeping us updated on the obstacles that adult Aspies face. Talk to you soon.

-- posted by Red