In February 2025 at the age of 32 I was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder after what has felt like a lifetime of being misunderstood and misdiagnosed with various other conditions. I finally feel like I’ve been heard and can start to piece together what it is to be me.

I’ve spent much of my live masking in attempt to conform and blend with what looks “normal” and neurotypical. People may notice a change in me as I attempt to unmask and become more comfortable with myself, no easy task! It’s my hope that by being vocal about my experience of getting diagnosed and sharing how there’s no one “look” for what it is to be an Autistic person, others will learn more about how challenging it can be for neurodivergent members of society.

I was also diagnosed with ADHD in October last year so I identify as an AuDHD person which adds another layer of complexity to it all as the two have shared traits but also some competing ones!

As part of my neurodivergent nature I get stuck in headfirst in challenges and new hobbies. I’ve had a love of running on and off since I was at university. I’ll be attempting to run all 60 miles throughout June be that plodding along pavements, running through Surrey fields or on the harder days when I need to be less visible I will be running on my treadmill.

I'm taking part in the 60 Miles in June challenge in aid of the National Autistic Society. 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, thank you! 💜