Aleah

Hi!  My name is Aleah, and I have autism – ASD.  What is Autism you ask?  Let me tell you what the experts think Autism is all about.  First, there is no known single cause for autism spectrum disorder, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure and function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in children with autism compared to neurotypical children.

Well, what does that all mean?

It means that some children who have autism can talk and express at least some of their thoughts and feelings. I am considered nonverbal – I don’t speak. But nonverbal doesn’t mean I don’t hear; I don’t think, I don’t have feelings or that I don’t understand.

I do.  Just like you. 

But not in the same way most other children do. I communicate differently - I make noises, and I scream. A lot. Sometimes I am not even sure why I scream, but I do.

Sometimes it is to let people know I am here, sometimes It is when I am feeling sick or lonely and sometimes, I scream just because I hear too many voices at the same time. I get confused. I get scared. I get sad.