28 years after my birth I discovered I was mildly autistc - fortunately I'm "high-functioning" which means I'm not affected greatly & can live a reasonably normal life. It just means I'm extremely focused (to the point of obsession), very literal & blunt in telling the truth, a workaholic recluse & think with extreme problem solving logic (rather than emotionally - so although I'm ethical, I don't display a lot of empathy & you'll be lucky to get a hug or compliment from me). As a result, I'm compelled to follow certain interests to a very detailed & technical level, without becoming emotionally jaded - to simplify: just mix the personalities of Dr. Spock & Mr. Bean together... :)

* I wish I'd known earlier about this side of my personality - as there are many things I've always been confused with (especially in regards social situations). As a result I have always had problems 'integrating' as I don't get involved in 'small talk / chit-chat' & only talk / vocalise if there's something 'constructive' that needs to be said or your asking me about one of my 'special interests'. I also don't make eye contact naturally & can have an in depth, detailed conversation without looking at someone (as a result I don't read body language as well as most) - some people can find this very confusing & some pre-judge me as a result, but what they don't understand is that if I make eye contact it can feel like I'm looking into a solar eclipse.

However, I'm one of the lucky autism sufferers as it has not caused a huge detriment to myself or those who know me & fortunately my obsessive focus has been a positive with my work / business' (although working for 72+ hours straight with no sleep can have severe impact on your health - thankfully I now have this obsessive focus 'more under control'). Sadly there are a lot of autistic people out there who are not as fortunate as me, & many are unaware they even suffer from this... as a result life can be a lot harder for them, their health can be at risk due to compulsive obsession & even a diagnosis / some support can make a massive difference. So that's why I'm raising money - to help these people get the assistance / support they need to be able to progressive positively with their lives.

* The Bottom Line: Don't be financially shy - open your wallet & donate what you can as it can make a huge difference.

Many thanks,

Paul Galbraith

 

PS: I'll say thank you in advance for any dontations as I don't have time to reply to messages individually & I'm not socially compelled to (one of my autistic traits !)