Written and Art by Ash Ward
Image Description: A disabled trans male being told He’s enough and the person saying that is making him feel important. Surrounded by the disabilities he has, the pain of having them are fading farther away once he hears those words of encouragement.
Living with disabilities is a unique journey that shapes one’s perspective and invites a myriad of experiences. Today, I tell you my life story of navigating through the complexities of autism, epilepsy, and ADHD. It was a long process, and I surely struggled, but it became harder and the road to where I am today was, indeed, bumpy.
• Discovering Differences
From an early age, I began to notice my innate differences from my peers. My initial encounters with autism manifested in distinct communication and interaction patterns. Socializing became an intricate dance that required both patience and understanding from those around me. Despite these challenges, I found solace in my burgeoning creativity and unique perspectives on the world.
• Epilepsy’s Unpredicted Twists
As life unfolded, epilepsy unexpectedly entered the stage, adding another layer to my journey. Seizures brought forth uncertainty and fear, each episode altering their path momentarily. However, with resilience and support, I discovered ways to manage my condition, embracing life’s unpredictability with open arms. Medication played a huge part, but overcoming my fear helped.
• The Dual Nature of ADHD
ADHD joined the ensemble, introducing a whirlwind of hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and difficulty concentrating. It challenged my ability to stay on task, especially in school, and sometimes made me feel restless in an environment designed for neurotypical individuals. Nevertheless, their ADHD became a catalyst for innovation, enabling me to approach my problems from unique angles and harness my boundless energy for creative pursuits.
•The Obstacles
Life was far from smooth sailing, as societal stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disabilities often stood in the way of my progress. I faced educational barriers and workplace discrimination various points in their life. However, with determination, advocacy, and the invaluable support of friends, family, and mentors (staff in my previous and current homing situations), I overcame these obstacles.
• Finding a Voice
In my quest for self-acceptance and resilience, I discovered an artistic outlet that allowed me to share their experiences. With writing, Drawing, or any creative medium, I was able to express my unique perspective on the world, enlightening society on the true nature of disabilities and eroding the boundaries between neurodiversity and the mainstream.
• Embracing Neurodiversity
The journey towards self-acceptance led me to embrace the concept of neurodiversity. I became passionate advocates, fostering inclusivity and understanding within their communities. My experiences with epilepsy, autism, and ADHD gave me invaluable insights into the diverse tapestry of human existence and the beauty that lies within the differences we all possess.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ash Ward
I am Ash Ward. My pronouns are He/they and I am 23 years old. I enjoy drawing and listening to music. I like helping others and volunteering at animal shelters!
Image Description: Trans man with pink fluffy hair, hazel eyes and an anime shirt on Trans man with pink fluffy hair, hazel eyes and an anime shirt on