ODD GIRL OUT
by Laura James
The story of an autistic woman in a neurotypical world
Laura had always felt she wasdifferent,but did not understand what lay behind these differences...
Win a free copy of Laura's best-selling book.
To Enter the competition:
- Write a description of how you felt about receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult.
- Email your story to steve@adultswithautism.org.uk
- The first three people to leave their story will win a copy of Laura's book.
- Your description only needs to be a few paragraphs (but not too long)
- Bluebird Books will send you a copy of Laura's book by post.
Laura James is a confident, high-achieving woman in a long-term relationship. She is also a mother, successful journalist and last but not least, awoman on the autistic spectrum.
For as long as she can remember, Laura had struggled to make sense of the world around her. At school she developed a type ofpsychological maskthat enabled her tohideher social-difficulties. This allowed her to form and maintain relationships.
Laura was finally diagnosed withAsperger Syndromeinher forties. She now feels 'validated' in her assumptions that there was somethingmoreto her cognitive differences than merely personality-type.
In common with many other adults-both male and female-that have had alatediagnosis of this complex developmental condition, Laura appears to have benefited greatly. She has developed a much greater level of self-awareness and learned to live-life in a way that works forher.
Post-diagnosis, Laura can now move forward with a new confidence. She is 'out' and proud..
She is happy to be an autistic woman in a neurotypical world.