I straddle two worlds, so different it seems,
One of disability, where challenges are extreme,
The other of acceptance, where belonging is key,
But finding a balance, is where I long to be.
Limited communication, just the tip of the ice
Access to communication a fundamental human right
Communication opens opportunities
.... but even this can carry me only so far
Multiple obstacles, in my daily life and strife,
Constant care, for most aspects, a must.
90% of daily life, a challenging sea to travail
... apraxia, aphasia... its has many names.
... somatosensory mapping and sensory processing
... impulsive and Parkinsons-like movements.
... crippling anxiety, mood swings, meltdowns and SIBs... daily living skills
But strengths I possess, that have carried me thus.
An undergrad degree at UC Berkeley.
At graduate school now, I proceed
Doing meaningful research, my hope
help autistics w/ knowledge and solutions,
Coupled with advocacy; bridge the divide
.... between these two worlds in fusion.
Two worlds can exist in one body
Dual solutions needed anon
1.Strengths-based-Opportunities
...that look at the possibility of me and open opportunities for me to grow in communication, education, societal inclusion and more
2.Challenges-based-Solutions
...that look at what is going on at a medical physiological level and come up with solutions that improve my long term quality of life.
The debate between the medical and social models,
A circular logical fallacy,
Groups defaming others, a wasted thing.
It's not an either-or situation, we must negotiate,
To reach that ultimate goal, of true belonging and grace.
Donald Triplett's community, an example to see,
A place of acceptance, where we all long to be,
But for those with more significant challenges,
It's not a happy picture, as the reality unveils.
Families and autistics, struggling to cope,
Managing finances, resources and time, with hope,
But as we autistics age, it gets harder to find,
A solution for those with significant issues
Exponential declines in quality of life.
I long for belonging, but also realize,
That there are missing steps, to help with our needs,
Underlying health and medical issues to address,
Conflating health with eugenics, is where we often digress.
It's frustrating, as any movement towards solutions,
Is deemed as the medical model, with no resolutions,
We must find a way to address health and behavior,
To improve quality of life, for all, now and forever.
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