Breaking Down Barriers: A Special Needs Parent's Journey to Advocacy

As I sit here and reflect on my journey as a neurodivergent parent, I can hardly believe how far I've come. Growing up, I always knew I was different, but I couldn't quite put my finger on why. It wasn't until my children, Remii and Chayce, were diagnosed with autism that I began to see myself in a new light. Suddenly, everything started to make sense.

For years, I struggled with mental illness, imposter syndrome, and a severe lack of confidence. It wasn't until I was diagnosed with ADHD and autism at the age of 32 that I finally understood why. Looking back on my childhood, I can see now how much my neurodivergence impacted my life, from the struggles I faced to the anxiety and fear that plagued me for years.

But with diagnosis came a newfound sense of awareness and understanding. I began to work on myself, building my confidence and resilience one step at a time. It hasn't been easy, but with the support of my amazing partner and the community I have helped to build, I've come so far.

As the co-founder of As1, a community supporting parents and carers of special needs and disabled children, I'm proud to give back in a way that feels truly meaningful. It's amazing to see how much of a difference we've made in just a few short years, and I'm excited to continue this important work as I join The Invisible Gift Community.

Through my social media presence, I strive to be open and honest about my experiences as a special needs parent, sharing tips, advice, and support for others who may be going through similar struggles. As an advocate for disability rights, I'm committed to making a difference on a larger scale, fighting for inclusion and access for all.

My journey has been far from easy, but it's made me who I am today. As a mixed-race woman with black children from a poor background, I've faced more than my fair share of obstacles. But through resilience, gratitude, and a supportive community, I've been able to overcome them all.

If there's one message I want to share with others, it's this: no matter what challenges you may face, never give up hope. With a support system, self-care, and a success mindset, anything is possible.