You got it wrong.
You got it wrong.
Your jaw probably clenched there.
Nobody likes to be wrong.
I get it.
But you were wrong about me and potentially others like me.
I was diagnosed at age three with Global Developmental Delay. The DSM describes GDD as... “GDD refers to a significant delay in two or more areas of development, such as cognitive, motor, communication, social, and self-help skills.”
I am not delayed. I have a different neurotype. I am fully intellectually intact inside a body that does not act in a typical fashion.
My diagnosis dictated how the world saw and interacted with me. Therapists saw my lack of motor control and coordination as lack of understanding.
I screamed internally.
My school never put much effort into educating me because of your label. I learned through proximity to real learning.
Your diagnosis haunts me.
I have the communication disorder... but do I really? Look at me here, communicating.
My family shouldn’t have to fight for this method, but we continue to do so. My diagnosis still dictates my funding.
It’s exhausting. I’m exhausted. But I will continue my fight.
I do not wish you to be my adversary. I invite you to join me. We need change at every level and I believe that starts with you.
I am no expert on what my diagnosis should be. I am a non-speaker with a motor disorder. There are millions out there like me, many of who fight in this same revolution.
Are you willing to fight with me? Spelled on a letterboard by Luke Verhoeff