As many of you know, our daughter Eliza was diagnosed with autism in 2022, and I was diagnosed myself last summer. As a family we have been on a huge journey over the last few years, understanding ourselves and how to live more happily in the world. Things are on a more even keel now, but I am really driven to help improve understanding about this brain difference and improve things so that my children can live a happy, fulfilling life without all the mental health strife that has plagued me.

Autism is a spectrum condition, which means that if you know one autistic person, you only really know ONE – because we are all totally unique in the way our brains affect our ability to live and work. Many of us are expert maskers, which comes at a huge cost to our energy and mental health and means you may have no idea how day day challenges affect us. Being autistic carries a greater risk of other comorbid conditions such as eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, sleeping problems and gastrointestinal difficulties. Generally, things that are often easy for most can present massive challenges for us, which doesn't mean we aren't capable; it just means it comes at a greater cost.

There have been so many resources that have helped us navigate, but the National Autistic Society has a lot of clout in terms of lobbying and awareness, and their resources are really great for professionals, families and individuals alike.

The National Autistic Society are there to help the 700,000 autistic people in the UK and their families – be it running specialist schools, campaigning for improved rights or training companies on being more autism-friendly – they are dedicated to transforming lives and changing attitudes.

Your donations towards my efforts are greatly appreciated and not only that, but they will also be a huge help in creating a society that works for all autistic people and their families. We are part of a huge tribe of incredible people, and we are all striving towards a more equal playing feild.

Thank you! 💜