hi!

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I have been reading the boards for a bit and finally decided to go ahead with the introduction portion.
I have a younger brother who was diagnosed with AS in 1997 and since have quite a bit of research about AS, autism in general and different areas on the related spectrum.

I have quite a bit of questions and concern that I am sure will be addressed in later posts.

My bf of 3+ years is AS. And he is the first person I have ever lived with, very interesting. (I'm 28 and he is 29).

I know there are several members of my family on my mothers side of the family that are most probably AS.

My mother is quite likely herself to be on the spectrum. There are so many of the indications but she has not been diagnosed.

There is a history of mental illness/addictions, etc in my family. I do not know how this may or may not contribute.

I recently found I have a half sister, (we have the same mother) who is older than me and has a severely autistic son. almost non functioning. I suppose that is the case since he is in diapers and is age 7. That truly terrifies me. (about reproducing myself.)

Probably because I believe I am possibly AS as well. It is not diagnosed, I haven't been to a pdoc or therapist in several years. (They thought I was all better!!)

As I got older I realized the repetitive patterns in my relationships, job, social settings that triggered me to do further research.

I took the 4 Baron Cohen tests online, though i do not believe in diagnosing myself online.
But I was more than shocked to find the results fitting well within the AS category. I do not know if I was shocked or relieved. But anyway, I will be posting and hope to get to know you all better.

I also have a very situation that has come about, as one of my close family friends is interested in starting a non profit organization. And while knowing my sincere interest in AS, we are considering a foundation of sorts that would benefit the community. I would love to hear any ideas.

thanks and best wishes to all,
devunea

ps. my mom usually uses the password "wrongplanet" i thought it was funny, then found this site, it all makes sense now.

Welcome to WP!

Tim

Hello!

Hi, welcome to WP.

I think setting up an organisation would be an excellent idea. I guess the main things would be to offer advocacy to help people get the support they need and to negotiate confusing paperwork etc.

It would also be good to get involved in campaigning to improve understanding and services for people with ASDs in your are.

You could have social skills classes - these would be very useful to people with AS - espeically children and teens.

Also have group meetings at least once a month so that people with AS, or parents of children wth ASDs etc. can meet others in the same situation.

These are just ideas. I am on the executive committee of an AS / HFA charity in the UK and they offer these services among others and recently won an award.

and to those who welcomed, thank you too.

girl7000 you had very good ideas. i know there are some obvious needs and am trying to uncover what would be the most beneficial and make the most difference in peoples lives.

I am interested to hear more about your work and congrats on your accolades.

It won't be surprising if you are not aspie once you described only other people than you, I believe a really aspie person, entering here, feels: I seem a lot like some of you.

Anyway, stay with us!

Welcome!! !