Strong points by Temple Grandin

The increased autism rates announced in early April have stirred the autistic community, prompting a heated debate that searches for the cause of this phenomenon.  Through Facebook, I found an online article written about Temple Grandin's response to this recent event.  Temple is arguably the most recognizable autistic individual on the planet today.  She was concerned about the increase of severely autistic individuals but stressed that autism diagnosis is not very precise.  What really stood out to me in this article is that Temple stated that there are negative reactions to "too much" autism awareness.  She argued that a childhood obsession held by children on the spectrum could be very useful later in life when it comes time to find a job. If autistic children face too much autism awareness exposure, then their interest could be directed towards the autism itself.  Temple argues that she would rather have the kids "fixate" on something that could be useful as a career later in life.  I have to admit that I never thought of that before and will strive harder to balance my writing projects between my fiction and writing to raise autism awareness.  To read the article referenced in this blog post, click here.

"Is autism just another Identity" Response

Recently, someone shared an article, written by Sandy Starr, about the autism spectrum that touches on a controversial aspect of autism: is an ASD diagnosis a disorder or strength?  After reading some of this thought provoking article, I have to admit that I felt threatened by some of the ideas in there.  Most of all, I felt threatened that the author, who was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome, still thought of autism as a disorder and questioned the validity of his own autism diagnosis.  After taking some time to reflect on the words, I was able to overcome the emotional defensive response and look at the content more objectively.

Perhaps my initial response in is light of the time and effort I have put forth in the past year to raise autism awareness by sharing my own story.  That decision alone to come out and share my autistic journey is motivated, on my part, by two reasons:  first of all, I want to help others to understand autism, something that had been suggested to me repeatedly ever since I first started writing at age sixteen; secondly, I hope by raising autism awareness, I would initiate my own presence as a writer and begin to build a writing platform that I could use to launch my published fiction and nonfiction work in the future.  By raising autism awareness, I am finding that I am rather possessive of my autism diagnosis.  I have come to view autism as a large part of my identity.

Looking at the article more objectively, I was able to identify something that I had been semi-consciously aware: that I have all but completed a shift in the way I view my ASD diagnosis: previously, when I had less understanding of autism, I was more prone to view autism as a disorder.  That was perhaps the result of my low self esteem when I entered my teenage years or the fact that I had so many difficulties growing up and I needed to blame it on something other than myself.  After sixth and seventh grade, I was more than ready to accept that my behavior was not entirely my own fault.  Although I still needed time to recover and grow further.  Most recently, ever since I have started to raise autism awareness through blogging and eventually Blog Talk Radio, I have come to view autism as an identity rather than a disorder.  This explains why I was threatened by the writer of this article, who stated otherwise.  

Another practical example of this shift lies in the way I treated my ASD disorder when I was in high school.  After coming out of my difficult middle school years, I had many friends that, for the first time in my life, praised me and accepted me for who I was.  They had no idea of the difficulties that I had dealt with during the previous years.  Therefore, I found myself in the position where I could hide my autism from my classmates for two reasons: the first reason is that my PDD-NOS diagnosis is a very high functioning form of autism to begin with; and two, I am such a quiet person that it was really no problem for me to conceal my black and white perspective and my social anxiety, for the most part.  The fact of the matter was I still viewed my autism as a disorder at that time which was not helped by my own lack of understanding of the autism spectrum at that time.  I was being accepted by my classmates for who I was and had no desire to reveal my ASD disorder condition to them, out of fear of rejection.  I don't know for sure whether I would have been rejected.  I am certainly receiving a lot of support from those friends and a few new friends as well in light of my efforts to raise autism awareness.

To read the article discussed in this blog post, click here.

Useful Autism Resource

Attention parents of autistic children!  Here is a great resource that was recently brought to my attention: The Dan Marino Foundation.  Located in Ft. Lauderdale Florida, the Dan Marino Foundation has provided support programs to improve the lives of ASD individuals for the past twenty years.  Among the services provided is the "Vocational Campus," which is designed specifically to help ASD individuals develop the job skills desperately needed to compete in today's workforce.

For more information, click here.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 05/07 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Tune into my next broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk on Blog Talk Radio.  This broadcast will air at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time.  During this broadcast, I will continue striving to raise positive autism awareness.  

We also might hear from Colin Brennan, a nine year old singer who is on the autism spectrum, as he talks about a recent accomplishment.  Just this past weekend, Colin won a singing competition in Toronto, Ontario.  It will surely be a very exciting show!

You can participate in the action too!  Just dial (619) 393-2848 to call into the show or you can also call in through Skype!  Make sure to tune into what will surely be another outstanding broadcast!

Always remember that under the right conditions with the aid of a strong support group, individuals on the autism spectrum can literally change the world.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 05/07 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Animation Opportunity

I wanted to inform my readers that I recently received an outstanding opportunity.  My friend, Dani Bowman, a seventeen year old autistic girl who owns an animation company asked me on Tuesday if I was interested in writing a script for a cartoon that she is working on.  I accepted, and that work in currently in progress.  

Some background information: Dani Bowman is the CCO of Powerlight Studios, a small animation company she began when she was eleven.  A few days ago, Dani was asked to submit a cartoon to introduce four guest speakers at the World Science Festival.  This is a great opportunity for both Dani and I, as individuals on the autism spectrum, to combine our creative talents to produce a creative work of art.  In the future, I hope we receive further opportunities to work together.  

My Take on Teacher Outrage

This video recently came to light on the news.  You might have already heard of the story of a father who discovered that his ten year old autistic son was bullied by his teachers.  This kind of behavior by the people who are paid to help individuals on the spectrum to better understand the world around them is despicable and completely unacceptable.  In my own personal experience, I have never been bullied by an instructor, although I have had teachers in the past who have failed to understand me.  One instructor failed to inform my parents that my grades were slipping, assuming that my parents did not care.  My dad still talks about the things he would have liked to say to that teacher.

To read the story in further detail, click here.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/30 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Tune into the next broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk next Monday, April 30th.  The show will air at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time.  During this broadcast, I will discuss the important topic of autism and driving.  For teenagers, receiving a driver's license signifies their independence.  No longer will they have to rely on other's for rides.  For teenagers with autism, it's a lot more complicated.  I will share my own experience as a driver who has autism and I invite you to do so as well.  You can call into the show by dialing (619) 393-2848 or you can call in through Skype.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/30 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/23 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Tune into my next broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk.  During this show, I will speak more about my experiences as a successful individual living on the spectrum.  I will also share some more of my writing over the air.  Above all, I will continue to raise positive autism awareness to inspire others to see hope in autism.

You can too by calling into the show to share your own experiences with the spectrum.  Call in by dialing (619) 393-2848 or you call in through Skype.

The show will air Monday, April 16th at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time.  Tune into what will surely be another great broadcast!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/23 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Another Useful Blog

In this blog post, I wanted to share a link for another useful blog that I discovered while scrolling through Facebook earlier today.  There is also a useful chat incorporated with this blog.  Although it is primarily centered around Aspergers Syndrome, it has very useful tips.  In particular, I liked the post about autism and anxiety, which is something that I have struggled with for a long time.

To read this blog, click on the following link:

http://www.babble.com/baby/baby-development/top-autism-blog-nominate/index.aspx

Vote for The Voice from the Spectrum!!

If you feel that my experience and insights shared on The Voice from the Spectrum have helped you to better understand the the autism spectrum, vote for my blog in this Top 30 Autism Spectrum Blog contest! Click on the following link to place your vote for The Voice from the Spectrum!

http://www.babble.com/baby/baby-development/top-autism-blog-nominate/index.aspx

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/16 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Tune into my next broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk.  During this show, I will speak more about my experiences as a successful individual living on the spectrum.  I will also share some more of my writing over the air.  Above all, I will continue to raise positive autism awareness to inspire others to see hope in autism.

You can too by calling into the show to share your own experiences with the spectrum.  Call in by dialing (619) 393-2848 or you call in through Skype.

The show will air Monday, April 16th at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time.  Tune into what will surely be another great broadcast!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/16 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Some People Think...

Some people think that I'm just shy.  They don't really see the whole picture.  They have no way of seeing the who picture so they shouldn't be expected to see more than is on the surface.  What people perceive as "shy" characteristics of my personality are actually the current end result of my autistic journey.  What was previously autistic characteristics mixed within the mind of a troubled boy are now a young many, almost 24, who is striving for greatness.  I want to help others to better understand autism and I also want to become a famous fantasy writer, recognized for more than my autism.  That is who I have become.  My autistic journey continues.

Hopefully my autistic journey will conclude in a different world.  A wiser and more accepting world.  A world where everyone understands autism and no one has to go through the pain that is associated with living on the spectrum today.  That is the world I hope for by the time my life is all said and done.  I'm going to be 24 in a few weeks.  I've probably got at least 50 years more to look forward to.  A lot can happen in that time.

A Shared Mesage

In this blog post, I wanted to take a moment to share a message that has been circulating around Facebook. Many of my readers do not have Facebook so I wanted to share this for their benefit. This message really speaks a great deal about what it means to be autistic.  A note, I did not write this poem and strongly admire the person that did.  It is my hope that you find this as insightful as I do:

"I am the child that looks healthy and fine.
I was born with ten fingers and toes.
But something is different, somewhere in my mind,
And what it is, nobody knows.
I am the child that struggles in school,
Though they say that I'm perfectly smart.
They tell me I'm lazy - can learn if I try ...
But I don't seem to know where to start.
I am the child that won't wear the clothes
which hurt me or bother my feet.
I dread sudden noises, can't handle most smells, and tastes - there are few foods I'll eat.
I am the child that can't catch the ball
And runs with an awkward gait.
I am the one chosen last on the team
And I cringe as I stand there and wait.
I am the child with whom no one will play ..
The one that gets bullied and teased
I try to fit in and I want to be liked,
But nothing I do seems to please.
I am the child that tantrums and freaks
Over things that seem petty and trite.
You'll never know how I panic inside,
When I'm lost in my anger and fright.
I am the child that fidgets and squirms
Though I'm told to sit still and be good.
Do you think that I choose to be out of control?
Don't you know that I would if I could?
I am the child with the broken heart
Though I act like I don't really care.
Perhaps there's a reason I'm made this way --
Some message I'm sent to share.
For I am the child that needs to be loved
And accepted and valued too.
I am the child that is misunderstood.
I am different - but look just like you."

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/09 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Check out the next broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk.  Tune in tomorrow at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time.  During this show, I will read some examples of my fiction while encouraging parents and caregivers to make the most of their ASD child's creative abilities.  I strongly believe that under the right conditions, someone on the autism spectrum can literally change the world.  Remember that you can call into the show to give your thoughts and feedback over the air.  You can do so by dialing (619) 393-2848 or you can call in through Skype.  I'm looking forward to what will surely be another great show!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/09 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

It's What is on the Inside that Counts

This past week, I started hosting a new blog radio program for the organization Positively Autistic.  The name of this new show is "The Poet's Interest: By Marilyn and Ryan."  While this show is, in part, about poetry, it also strongly pertains to the autism spectrum.  I work as the co-host, while poet Marilyn Ann Francis is the host of this program.  Marilyn has a child who shows autistic characteristics.  This program was the re-launch of a show previously aired by Positively Autistic called "Joe and Marilyn's Poetry Hour."

During this broadcast, we had a handful of people call into the show to give their input about the autism spectrum over the air.  They were mainly parents of autistic children.  One man called into the show and gave an account of some of his son's autistic characteristics.  While on the air, the man's son began to have a meltdown.  Over the air, we received a blow-by-blow look into some of the difficulties associated with the autism spectrum.  The many eventually had to get off the line to gain control over the situation.

I knew right away that I wanted to turn some of the worst aspects of autistic behavior into something positive.  Although I didn't know how I would pull that off, I knew that I was going to try.  I made a point of saying that, although many aspects of the spectrum are not pleasant to behold, appearances are not an accurate way to gauge who people on the spectrum are.  We are diamonds in the rough, coated initially with a layer of grit.  When the dirt which is unpleasant to behold is cleaned away, what could easily be dismissed as a dirty stone was really a diamond on the inside.  

This is how I think individuals on the autism spectrum should be viewed.  It is not on the outside, but on the inside that counts.  People on the spectrum are like diamonds under the right condition, but only if they are given the opportunity to shine.   Just for the record, I believe the father who called in is doing an excellent job for his son.

To listen to the radio show referenced in this blog post, click on the following link:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/positivelyautistic/2012/04/04/the-poets-interest-by-marilyn-and-ryan

A Useful I-Phone App

This was recently brought to my attention.  There is an I-phone application currently available that may be invaluable to parents and caregivers of autistic children.  Called "Autism Track," allows caregivers to record, track, and correlate autistic behavior through this app.  When used properly, a caregiver would be able to determine what causes meltdowns and how to prevent them.  Above all, this device would allow parents and caregivers to create the right conditions under which an individual on the autism spectrum can recognize the unique gifts associated with living with autism.

For more information, visit the following website:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/autismtrack/id391660393?mt=8

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/02 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Join me for Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk for Monday, April 2nd, as I discuss legislation in Michigan Congress that would mandate that insurance companies cover autism treatment in Michigan.  This is a very important topic, as lifting some of the financial burden off of parents of autistic children give parents greater opportunity to give those children the right conditions under which they can make the most of their talents associated with the autism spectrum.  This show will air at 1 pm eastern time, 10 am Pacific Time, and 6 pm UK time.  Remember that you can call into the show by dialing (619) 393-2848 or you call in through Skype.  Tune into what will surely be another insightful and inspirational show!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 04/02 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

The Miracle Project

In previous blog posts as well as Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk (my weekly online radio program), I have spoken again and again of the importance of creativity.  Recently, I became aware of an organization situated in the Los Angeles area that promotes creativity programs that are very similar to Joey Travolta's film camp, which I witnessed last summer.  "The Miracle Project" offers creative arts programs for individuals on the spectrum in music, acting and many other areas.  After watching a video describing some of the activities/benefits of this program, one child who was on the spectrum said that acting made him feel like he wasn't autistic anymore.  That he could be himself as he truly was.

For more information about The Miracle Project, visit their webpage at: http://www.themiracleproject.org/

Autism Insurance in Michigan

For those of you in the Michigan area who do not know, there is currently legislation working its way through state congress that will mandate that insurance companies issue coverage for families affected by autism.  Lt. Governor Brian Calley, who has a child on the autism spectrum, is a strong advocate for this measure which was recently approved in the senate.  In May when I participate in a panel at a symposium on autism and employment, there is a good chance that I will get a chance to meet Brian Calley, which will surely be a great honor.  I have dedicated my life to raising awareness for a condition that has impacted Brian Calley's life, my own life, and the lives of so many others.  I encourage readers who are Michigan residents to show your support for this legislation in any way possible.  While there are many costs associated with autism, always remember that there is hope as well.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/25 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Join me for Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk as I discuss autism awareness month.  Every April, special consideration is taken to the autism spectrum, so this is the perfect time to put in that extra effort to better understand autism and the special gifts and talents hidden within many autistic individuals.  

The show will air Monday, March 26 at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time.  Remember that you can call into the show by dialing (629) 393-2848 or you can call in through Skype!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/26 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

An Inspiring Friend

Here is an article written about my friend Jerry Wolffe, who writes for The Oakland Press and advocates for those who are disabled.  Jerry broke through so many barriers growing up to become the journalist and advocate he is today.  He told me at one point that I would go further than he ever did as a disability advocate and a writer.  A tall order, considering how much Jerry, himself, has accomplished.  To read more, click on the following link:

http://ahherald.com/columns-mainmenu-28/disabilities-week/12793-wolffe-changing-his-world 

Don't Say it Can't be Done

It has been a dream of mine to become a world renowned fantasy author.  Yesterday, I was informed that a science fiction short story that I had submitted for publication had been accepted for publication in a journal published at the university I attend.  My first, and by no means my last, piece of published fiction.  For those who are struggling with the difficulties associated with autism at present, my message is: don't lose hope.  Never say that it can't be done.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/19 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Join me for Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum talk for Monday, March 19th, 2012.  During this broadcast, I will be talking about my experiences with autism and bullying.  Remember that you can call into the show by dialing (619) 39-2848 or you can call in through Skype.  I'm looking forward to hearing from you if you have time to tune in!  If not, you can click on this same link to listen to the on-demand version after the show has concluded!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/19 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Autism and Bullying: Part One

In previous blog posts, I have discussed many times about my difficulties that I endured during middle school.  While most of those difficulties were dealt with internally between myself, one of the external difficulties was bullying.  Middle school students can really be the cruelest people imaginable to someone who does not fit the unspoken criteria of what is socially acceptable.  It was really the perfect storm in my case.

To start with, I have a personality type that accounts for only one percent of the population (INFP), which accounts for individuals who are passive in appearance but really hide deep feeling and sensitivity.  In other words, I could take taunts from bullies without a word but feel the pain for years.  Also, I was dealing with mild autism.  Put an idealistic perfectionist in a body/mind that does not operates on a different system from most other people and you get someone like me who will push the limits of my own condition and ridicule myself for any perceived failures. Put that kind of a person (me) in a situation where he feels socially inferior, you get a depression so deep that the shadow of which can still be felt today, amid all my success.

There were a few bully's during this time that went out of their way to make my life miserable.  However, the majority of people considered me to be an outsider.  It was less how people viewed me and more to do with how I thought other people viewed me.  My entire sixth grade year, I ate lunch alone with the exception of another troubled kid who I could not stand but said nothing about it.

Even these days, while I am striving for greatness as a writer, I still have to endure the doubt and intense internal conflict associated with my personality type, all invisible to people who come associate with me on a day to day basis..  All things considered, I am my own worst enemy at times.  

A Note to my Readers

Hello all,

I wanted to take time in this blog post to ask my readers if you feel that you are benefiting from my words presented in this blog.  I can talk about aspects of living on the spectrum that seem important to me but I don't know if anyone is benefiting from that.  Are there any topics that you would like me to discuss on The Voice from the Spectrum that might help you to better understand your autistic children or any students you might have that are on the autism spectrum?  If you are uncomfortable leaving public comments but would still like your concerns addressed, you can email me your topic ideas or questions at rcoakland2012@gmail.com.  Also, I am open to any ideas for radio topics that you would like me to speak about on Junior Positively Autistic's: Ryan's Spectrum Talk.  

For the past few months, I have been speaking of what I feel is important regarding autism awareness, but it brings me far greater satisfaction to know that I am helping you to better understand an elusive condition.  I might not have the answers you seek, but I promise that I will try as hard as I can to help you to better understand autism.

-Ryan Comins

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/12 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Join me for my fifth broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk.   This show will air this Monday at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time on blog talk radio.  During this broadcast, I will discuss my autism success story, emphasizing first the difficulties that I experienced when I was younger.  Remember that if you have any interest in coming on this show to share your own opinions, viewpoints, and experiences, you can call into the show by dialing (619) 393-4828 or you can call in by using Skype.  Tune into what will surely be another outstanding broadcast furthering the cause of autism awareness!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/12 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Handling Stress

Difficulties in life can by trying for anyone, but for an individual on the spectrum, they can sometimes become incapacitating.  At times, sometimes the knowledge that I had autism clouded my decision making process more than the actual impact of my autism characteristics.  For the longest time, I didn't know what it meant to have autism.  In one instance, I went as far as to say to a friend that those on the spectrum did not have feelings, which cannot be farther from the truth.  It is good for me that the friend in question refused to believe that statement.  Stress is hard for anyone, but I found myself blaming my autism at times, to take some accountability off of my own actions, even when justifying behaviors and choices to others.  Through that, I believe that individuals on the high functioning end of the spectrum should take responsibility for their own actions, and when autism impacts lives in adverse way, try to determine why that is the case.  Try to understand that stress is not easy for anyone, and autism does not exclude someone from the difficulties that those living off the spectrum experience as well.  This message is intended for high functioning adults on the spectrum. Those like me.

My Autism Success Story

For more than half my life, I have considered October 2000 to be the dividing point in my life.  This was when I was taken out of school to attend a day hospital in a neighboring town.  It was during this time when I officially received my autism diagnosis, at age twelve.  While it seemed like a dire point of my life at the time, I began to look at it in a different way as I continued to succeed academically and socially.

Prior to this period of my life, I had found myself in some sort of downward spiral for the two years leading up to that time.  To put it another way, it was like I was in quicksand; the harder I struggled, the more that I lost control of the situation.  There was less struggling involved then inwardly yearning for something more.  I found myself immersed in a chemical imbalance, due to the medications I was on at the time.  Depression was steadily gaining a foothold over the way I viewed myself, eroding my self esteem.  It is very difficult to write about this.  No words seem appropriate for what I was going through.  Always, in my mind, and on the outside as well, it seemed like I was the one to blame.  In reality, I was not accountable for myself, my actions in response to something inside of me that was outside of my control.

To put it mildly, I was the underdog.  No one really expected me to start succeeding in school, not even myself.  To make the A, B honor role, a year and a half after all this came into climax, it was nothing I could have predicted.  Although I tried hard in school, each year I half expected it to end, for things to reverse to what they had been previously.  Even now, as I surge forward with my writing career, basing the foundation around the same difficulties that brought me so much pain and grief at the time; I'm trying to use that time of my life as an example to help others like myself.  At age twelve upon receiving information that I would be leaving school for a day hospital, I was excited.  Just the previous day I had been goaded by classmates and was hard put to restrain myself from attacking my classmates for the pain they were carelessly causing me.  There were so many, I didn't know where to turn first.  Had I not left school to go to that day hospital when I did, I might have given into violence and things would have turned out differently.

I don't often think about that anymore.  Not when my life is better than it ever has been.  It is not without difficulty that I relate this in the hope that I might be able to help others to better understand one more viewpoint behind the eyes of the autism spectrum.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/05 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Join me on Monday, March 5th for my fourth blog radio show, Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk. This show will air on blog talk radio at 1 pm EST, 10 am PST, and 6 pm UK time. In this broadcast, I will discuss the benefits of having autism. Too often are the costs of living on the spectrum given more emphasis than the benefits. Hidden within an individual with autism is a bright mind, sometimes at the mercy of their body, and strong talents, that are waiting for the right conditions in order to shine. It is my hope that by raising autism awareness that those on the spectrum as well as parents, caregivers, and teachers can recognize the wonderful potential of those on the spectrum and make it more than just potential. Remember that you can participate in the chat room that will be ongoing during the broadcast. You can also call into the show to give your input by calling (619) 393-2848 or you can call in through Skype. I'm looking forward to what will surely be a great broadcast!

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 03/05 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

More about Autism and Employment

After my latest blog radio show this past Monday concerning autism and employment, I wanted to take a little more time to talk about this topic.  As discussed in my show, I believe that the biggest key to improving low autism employment rates is to raise awareness to employers about the benefits of finding uses for the strong talents hidden within individuals with autism.  These talents can only be brought out under the right conditions.  By increasing understanding about this issue, employers can overcome any uncertainty or lack of understanding and arrange a way to benefit both the company and the individuals on the spectrum.  To hear more about this topic, click the following link to listen to Monday's radio show.  There were some technical difficulties near the beginning, but overall, it was a great show:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/positivelyautistic/2012/02/27/junior-positively-autistic-ryans-spectrum-talk

This May, I have invited to speak at a symposium about autism and employment.  It is very important for me to use my talents and the great conditions I have experienced to help others to better understand the autism spectrum.  Also, in the future I hope to use my talents to become a world renowned fantasy novelist like J.R.R. Tolkien and his "Lord of the Rings" Trilogy, or J.K. Rowling and her "Harry Potter series.  My own fantasy series will not be ready for some time still.  In the meantime, I will continue to raise autism awareness through the resources I have available to benefit others, while at the same time getting my name out to the right people in a way that will help my  future career as a fantasy novelist.  I see it as a win-win situation.  

Who knows what blogging and online radio will lead to later this year and beyond?  There will be more information about the symposium when it becomes available.

Create the Right Conditions

Every person is the result of the environment into which they are born, no matter what inherent talents they may possess. This is the same case with autistic individuals and their parents.  And yet, no matter what conditions parents are facing regarding financial stability and what not, is there no action that can be taken to provide the best possible environment for children on the autism spectrum?

For I believe that no matter what situation parents are confronted by, under the right conditions, anyone on the autism spectrum can make the best of those abilities they receive in exchange for whatever sensory issues or other problems they might endure.  Nothing in life comes without some sort of cost.  The greater the talents, the deeper they are within an individual on the spectrum, waiting for certain circumstance.  Under the right conditions, an individual on the spectrum can literally change the world.

The catch is that those individuals on the spectrum cannot create these conditions on their own.  They have no idea what the conditions are themselves, or if they do know, then it is in a form of thought that cannot be translated into language.  It is the responsibility of parents, teachers, caregivers, and therapists to bring out the best in that individual.  The individual on the spectrum did not ask for this, to not have complete control over their own body, to be trapped.  The mind is very active but trapped, waiting for an outlet of some kind.  I have spoken before of an autistic girl named Carly who confounded her parents once she learned that she could communicate her thoughts by typing, as I am right now.

I can guarantee that the words I am saying right now are not something that I could speak of in small talk at work, without great difficulty.  It is not so much as a problem with presenting my message than with my message being received as intended.  I could walk up to someone on the street and try to say all this, with no problem formulating the words and my message would not be received.  Someone might think, what a creeper with the underlying notion that people just do not talk this way, as I am presenting these words.  So this is the best way for me to communicate my insights into autism, through my strong and "eloquent" writing skills.  

The words I am typing right now are a direct result of the right conditions I found myself experiencing.  The skills are mine, but I cannot claim complete credit for what I do.  My parents, teachers, friends, and anyone who believes in my vision have all created the right conditions I need to succeed as a writer.  Without them, I would never come to recognize this part of myself.

Let me give two more examples in recent film of individuals off the spectrum who have succeeded because someone else changed the conditions under which they lived.  One is fictional, the other is not.  Michael Oher, star football player, grew up in the slums outside of Nashville Tennessee.  His strong talent as an athlete would never have been recognized if someone had not changed the conditions under which he lived.  Now he is a star football player, a story worthy of a book and film.  "Blind Side," which tells the story of how Oher's conditions were changed is an excellent film that I definitely recommend.  The other example is fictional.  In the film "Good Will Hunting," a genius worked as a low class janitor at Harvard.  In spite of his intelligence, he would have never been recognized if someone else had not changed his conditions.  This is another great movie to take the time to watch; but not one for children to view.  

Those on the spectrum cannot create the right conditions on their own.  That is up to parents, teachers, caregivers, and therapists.  Time is no issue.  It doesn't have to happen today or tomorrow or in ten years as long as it happens.  It will be worth it.  Thank you for sticking with me to the end of this unusually long blog post.  This is something that I think is really important.

"I know more than I think you know..."

This is quote listed in the title came to me while looking into a news story about an severely autistic girl, Carly, who reveals her inner world through typing.  This quote is the silent cry that everyone on the autism spectrum is trying to reach out to those who are not on the spectrum, who run the world, and in some cases, claim to know us better than we know ourselves.  I'm sorry if this offends anyone but it is true.  This is the silent cry of many on the spectrum, as spoken by Carly, and as spoken by many others as well, I'm sure.  For a long time, I have considered myself to have a foot in both worlds.  While I am on the spectrum and experience autism characteristics, I am also capable of looking at autism as an "outsider" or someone who is not on the spectrum.  In the work place and at school, I can function without anyone being aware that I am on the spectrum.  It is my hope that this blog becomes as the title states, one of the many Voices from the Spectrum who are striving to be heard.

A Sensory Example

Those on the autism spectrum experience a very different world than those who are neurotypical (NT) or not on the autism spectrum.  This can extend all the way to the way things are perceived.  Something that quite literally is seen, or felt, or tasted, or smelt one way by an NT individual can experienced differently by someone on the autism spectrum.  The example I am going to use is fleece.

Last fall in The Voice from the Spectrum, I discussed the YouTube videos created by Taylor Morris, who is on the autism spectrum and has since become a model.  In one of her videos, she discussed how physical contact with fleece can literally "hurt" her.  This caused me to recognize something that I had not really thought of.  Touching fine fleece causes a curious sensation for me as well.

A few days ago at work, I found a piece of clothing that was causing me a prickly sensation upon contact and I decided to try an experiment to see if a NT coworker feels the same thing that I do, suspecting that it was not the case.  I have been very open with this coworker about living on the spectrum.  This coworker has always accepted what I say in regard to living on the spectrum and relating to the life of a busy college student.  She told me that she did not notice anything extraordinary about the piece of clothing.  I described the sensation that I felt when I ran my hand over the cloth and this coworker and another coworker told me that they noticed nothing.

Even when prepared for it, hearing that still blew me away.  This fleece, which both coworkers described as feeling quite soft, seemed to grip my skin as I ran my hand over it.  I tried describing the feeling like sandpaper or something similar.  Since I am more sensory in-tuned to such things, I can only assume that the small fibers on the fleece caused the same reaction to everyone, those on the spectrum are just more sensitive to it.

This opens up many possibilities to me.  One thing I want to make clear is that parents of those of the spectrum should not dismiss their ASD child's reaction to the sensations of touching fleece or eating a food that has a texture which causes them to gag.  Since my autism is mild, the touch of fleece with is merely uncomfortable to me, can be downright painful to someone who has more sensory problems than me.  While the material seems to grip my skin upon contact, I find it easy to imagine that a moderate or severely autistic individual might feel like fleece is tearing at their skin.  I urge parents to not ignore instances such as this.  

When I was younger, all I wanted was to be understood by others.  This tidbit about fleece is just another piece of the autism puzzle.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 02/20 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

As spoken of in my previous blog posts, I cannot stress enough the importance of creativity in the lives of those on the autism spectrum. My own life has been influenced by creative activities in the two following areas: music and writing. In this Monday's broadcast of Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk, I will discuss the importance of creativity in the life of someone on the autism spectrum. Also, I will relate my own creative experience in the areas of music and writing. Tune into this show this coming Monday, February 20, at 1:00 pm eastern standard time, 10 am Pacific Standard time, 6 pm UK time. Feel free to participate in the chat room. Remember that you can call in using Skype, or by calling (619) 393-2848.

Junior Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 02/20 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Overcoming Barriers

Over the course of my life, I have overcome many barriers to achieve all the things that I have accomplished and reach the point I am at today.  In this blog post, I am going to discuss many of the barriers that I have vanquished.  We all hear that those on the spectrum have to overcome many challenges to live a successful, independent life.  However, I feel there is great uncertainty involved with this.  For many parents and individuals on the spectrum, looking to the future is like trying to peer through a vast fog, beyond which nothing is known for sure.  It is my hope by listing my challenges that I have overcome, I will pave the path for many parents who are looking for a glimmer of inspiration.

My first barrier I faced was a speech barrier.  When I was two years old, I lost what speech skills I had then obtained.  Gradually, my mom worked with me by talking to me and playing music.  Eventually, I was able to regain my verbal language skills.  My second barrier is what I will call my "shyness barrier."  Even after I regained my speech skills, I never really talked to anyone besides my parents.  Over time, I came out of my shell and made friends, some of which I know today, almost twenty years later.

The next barrier I overcame was the academic barrier.  Prior to eighth grade, I had nearly been held back a grade on more than one occasion.  It was a true achievement, not to mention surprise, to make the A/B honor role, with mostly special ed classes.  Through high school, I had to break through the wake of my depression I had experienced in middle school and gain more self confidence.  Continuing the honor role after moving out of special ed in science and history helped me to recognize that maybe I was as smart as people told me I was.  Throughout high school, I also made many friends and expanded my social boundaries.  Admittedly, many of these friends had no idea what I had experienced just a few years previously.

When I graduated from high school into college, I was doubtful my academic success would continue, since there is no special ed in college.  My first semester proved me how wrong I was.  I started college with a 3.84 GPA.  The lowest grade I received during the first academic year was an A-.  Now I have nearly completed college and have still received all A's, B's, and a handful of C's since I first started college.

When I started this blog, I broke a barrier as well.  Prior to that time, I considered knowledge about my autism to be private information.  Only family and a handful of friends knew that I was on the spectrum.  Sharing information and insight of my condition to faceless people I would never meet, was frightening initially.    Over time, I became more comfortable.  Right now, I know that I am making a difference because you have taken the time to read my words.  I hope that by sharing the challenges I have overcome, I might instill hope in others who really need it.

Advantages of a Gluten Free Diet

A friend recently gave me the idea to write about the advantages a gluten-free diet may have in the behavior of an individual on the autism spectrum.  A gluten free diet is defined by the exclusion of the protein gluten, which is a protein found in foods containing wheat and rye.  Following such a diet can be difficult and expensive, however, studies have proven that the implementation of a gluten free diet can have reduce autistic characteristics.

A gluten free diet, while difficult to maintain, has many mental and physical advantages.  Eating gluten free food goes great lengths towards losing weight and achieving digestive health.  This kind of diet is the only treatment for those suffering from Celiac disease.  It has been shown to reduce varied other conditions ranging from arthritus to seizures.  To view my research source, click the following link for a comprehensive link to listed benefits: http://www.glutenfree-diet.org/benefits.htm

As with every other aspect of the autism spectrum, no two individuals on the spectrum respond to a gluten free diet in the same manner.  Varied results have been reported, ranging from mild improvement to a dramatic reduction of autistic behaviors.  Other benefits have been observed by combining a gluten free diet with other diets.  For more information, click on the following link to view my research source: http://www.autismweb.com/diet.htm.

To make this clear, I am a writer, not a professional.  To find out if a gluten free diet might be appropriate for your child, it would be best to consult your child's doctor.

A REMINDER

To close out this week, I wanted to remind my readers to check out my new blog radio, Junior Positively Autistic, Ryan's Spectrum Talk, on Blog Talk Radio.

Click the following link to view the show:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/positivelyautistic/2012/02/13/ryans-spectrum-talk

This past Friday, I performed a test to gain a feel for radio broadcasting on blog talk radio.  It went over so well, that I was told that I should share this test as a preview since I did such a good job.  That is a good sign, considering how performing radio talk shows is a new experience for me.  To see this preview of what I might talk about, click the following link:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/positivelyautistic/2012/02/10/junior-positively-autistic-ryans-spectrum-talk-test-1

Creativity is a More than a Want...It is a NEED

Valentine's Day is approaching and the demands at my job are rising.  I find myself getting worked up from what needs to be done. However, my responsibilities at work are not the source of my restlessness and unease.  Imagine that you feel like something is wrong, like something needs to be done, and like something you are doing is not good enough, I feel all those things from time to time.  The source of those feelings?  Simple.  I haven't been creative enough lately.

I know of a solution is to solve that problem, to put my mind more at ease.  The solution is simple but by no means obvious.  In order to think clearly at work, I need to write.  More specifically, I need to find some way to release my creativity that is building up inside me.  Simply jotting words down on a page is not enough.  I have to listen ti myself and find a way to express what needs to be said.  Without fail, I always feel better afterwards.  This doesn't effect just work, it impacts my peace of mind.

This is how important it is to find a way to express creativity.  Writing is the answer to my problem in order to regain my peace of mind.  The answer will probably be different for other individuals on the spectrum.  Someone might find peace of mind through singing or painting or other means.  I used to look for external sources for the answers to my restlessness when the answer was on the inside all along, waiting to be expressed.

Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 02/13 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Starting next week, I will be hosting my own online radio show, "Junior Positively Autistic: Ryan's Spectrum Talk!" This show will air every Monday at 1 pm eastern standard time, starting on February 13th. Feel free to join me in the chat room or call the following number (619) 393-2848 to give me your thoughts on the air. You can also call in via Skype. I'm really looking forward to another opportunity to share my insights and experiences of living on the autism spectrum. Remember that those on the spectrum can literally change the world under the right conditions. There is no better time to begin that change than now!

Positively Autistic Ryans Spectrum Talk 02/13 by Positively Autistic | Blog Talk Radio

Check out this Online Autism Radio Show!

Here is a message posted by my friend, Joe Westlake, earlier this week on Facebook:

“Join us live for the Positively Autistic Radio Show this upcoming Wednesday which is one every Wednesday… Positively Autistic: Marilyn and Joe’s Poetry Hour.  This is a show that runs weekly, by poet and host Marilyn Ann Francis, and co-host Joe Westlake.    Join us from 6m UK time, 1 pm EST and 10am PST.  Please feel free to join us in the chat room, and don’t forget you can call in to talk to and read poetry.  This show is all about poetry and Autism Awareness.  Call in on 1-619-393-2848.  For more information, visit: www.positivelyautistic.com”

I have tuned into this show a few times and read a few of my own poems this past week.  I encourage my readers to tune into this show Wednesdays, 1 p.m. eastern time, 10 a.m. pacific time.  This is another great example of the achievements of those on the autism spectrum.  Listeners can call in to the show through the number listed above or through Skype.  If you don't want to talk or can't get through, you can participate in the chat room.  This displays great examples of what those on the autism spectrum can achieve under the right conditions.

Blind Boy with Autism Sings Heartwarming Song

My grandparents recently brought this inspiring video to my attention.  This ten year old has autism and is blind.  I cannot begin to imagine how he views the world.  Despite his challenges, rocking on stage while he is introduced, this boy sings an inspiring song, bringing light to the fact that those on the autism spectrum can accomplish extraordinary achievements under the right conditions. Things that people off the spectrum can accomplish only through years of study and hard work.  There are two sides to every coin.  This boy might live in a dark world that is dictated by his senses.  Try listening to that song with your eyes closed.  Would you be able to tell that he has autism based on the way he sings?

To watch this video, click on the following link:

http://www.godvine.com/10-Year-Old-Boy-with-Autism-Sings-Open-the-Eyes-of-My-Heart-1041.html

Autists are "square pegs" in a world filled with "round holes"

“Autists are the ultimate square pegs, and the problem with pounding a square peg into a round hole is not that the hammering is hard work. It's that you're destroying the peg.”
― Paul Collins 

 I saw this post on Facebook earlier and it reminded me of something that is frequently on my mind.  As mentioned in previous posts, I grew up watching the film "Apollo 13."  If I were given a few hours of sustained concentration, I could probably recite that film word for word.  That being the case, it should be known that I am reciting all the background information for this blog post from memory using what I can recall from the film and my interests in space travel from when I was younger.  I ask everyone to bear with me as I build this up to my point. 

One of the problems facing the astronauts on their journey back from the moon is something that we all deal with on a daily basis without really thinking about it: carbon dioxide.  This is the waste gas that is exhaled every time we take a breath.  Under normal circumstances on the Apollo missions, both the command module, which was the section of the vehicle that the astronauts use to re-enter earth's atmosphere, and the lunar module, which was the part of the space craft that landed on the moon, each had these filters to recycle carbon dioxide exhaled by the astronauts.  In a confined space 100,000 miles from home, the carbon dioxide exhaled by the astronauts has nowhere to go and would replace the oxygen, if not for the filter.  The Apollo 13 mission was far from normal.  The astronauts and the ground crew below had to push the capabilities of the space craft to the ultimate limit.

What happened in this case is the astronauts were forced to shut down the functions of the command module to conserve power for reentry and spend their trip to earth within the lunar module.  There were three crew members that traveled to the moon using the Saturn V spacecraft.  They were the flight commander, the lunar module pilot, and the command module pilot.  Under normal circumstances, the command module pilot stays in the spacecraft orbiting the moon while the other two crew members descend to the surface in the lunar module.  This being the case, the lunar module was designed to accommodate only two people.  The Apollo 13 circumstances exceeded this capability, so the carbon dioxide filters in the lunar module were saturated by circumstances the designers never expected them to face.

This brings me back to the quote above.  The given alternative for the astronauts was to use the carbon dioxide filters from the command module in exchange for the saturated filters in the lunar module.  However, both filters were designed by two different companies.  The filter in the command module was square and the one in the lunar module was round.  With the lives of the astronauts at stake, the crew on the ground had to find a way to literally fit a square peg in a round hole with the lives of the astronauts at stake as the slowly suffocated from excess carbon dioxide.

The ground crew bellow was given the task of building this filter to ACCOMODATE for the difference in specifications.  This was a high stakes craft project using nothing but the items the astronauts had access to in their space craft.  Once the design was complete, mission control relayed the instructions for the filter to the astronauts and walked them through the construction process for the make-shift device that saved their lives.

In a metaphorical sense, this is what individuals with autism face on a daily basis.  Ranging from a parent who has a child with Aspergers Syndrome, to another parent who has a nonverbal child with severe autism, the concept is the same.  Those children are square pegs in a society designed for those who are round, so the world functions around base assumption that everyone is round.  Trying to hammer an autistic child into a situation that they are not able to handle does not solve the situation.  My mission while raising autism awareness is to show people that those with autism are not disabled or incapable of functioning in a world made of round holes.  With the right thinking, experimenting, and accommodations using what people have available to them can make these situations work.  Given that this Apollo 13 filter was built by the brightest scientific minds of the day, not everyone has access to reasoning capability like that.

Parents of children with autism: can anyone really claim to know your child better than you do?  You have been through everything with them as you try to understand how to accommodate their individual needs with the resources you have.  Through the human spirit of becoming greater than you are presently, I guarantee that it can be done.  I am living proof!