Why I would not change my Autism diagnosis for anything

Autism Spectrum Disorder “ASD”, which I have, is widely misunderstood and commonly stereotyped. I was speaking with someone over a coffee not so long ago. We wouldn’t be that familiar. We are from the same area but would not be the type to arrange social meetups. As I happened to be in the same café as them, we entered into some ‘small talk’.

An unexpected conversation about autism

Throughout the conversation, we discussed a variety of topics: the weather, an upcoming Kerry GAA match and the book I was reading at the time. I cannot recall how autism was brought up by them, but when it was, I had the facts and figures on the topic. It led to them remarking on how well-informed I was on the subject.

I responded and told them that I was autistic. They spat out their coffee in shock. “Hardly, Davin!” they said whilst attempting to clean up the spilt coffee with a tissue. “Yes”, I stated in a polite, yet informative manner.

This person was shocked and even took the opportunity to tell me of their surprise. They went on to inform me that they have little understanding of autism and would be pleased if I were to inform them, in my own words, what autism is.

Challenging stereotypes, one conversation at a time

Over the remainder of our conversation, I was pleased to inform them what autism is. Its signs and symptoms, and how it is diagnosed. Better still, I informed them of the support available to autistic people and their families. I even managed to debunk some common myths regarding autism.

Why I wouldn’t change my autism diagnosis

I informed this person that if someone could wave a magic wand and remove my autism diagnosis, I would refuse.

My acquaintance was confused by this. I maintained my position and explained how I take great pride in being, as it is known, “on the spectrum”.

Living authentically as an autistic person

As someone who was diagnosed with autism at a young age and has often been in the face of adversity, including being seen as a “social pariah” during my childhood, I am pleased to be on the spectrum.

I have, for instance, had an amazing time in my own company. I have a small, yet positive social circle. I have a career that I enjoy, and I would often participate in volunteer work. I am mesmerised by certain things; it is what the professionals call “fixations”. I have a wicked sense of humour and enjoy being allowed to be myself without being pressured into conforming to other people’s expectations.

Every day is a day I look forward to. My diagnosis makes each day that extra bit better. I suppose, without autism, I would be living a boring life.

It is safe to say that I left that person educated on the ins and outs of autism. As the old saying goes, “every day is a school day”.

A message to those who don’t understand autism

If I were to issue one message to the reader of this article. Walk in the shoes of an autistic person, step into their psychology, and only then might you have the right to be so judgmental and critical. I can guarantee you will enjoy being on what I call ‘the wild side’.

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