Autism looks like a normal life for us. We just have a more routine schedule and prepare Zachariah for upcoming changes. But he is a normal happy six-year-old kid whose smile and laughter bring a smile to people's faces. He has a different brain than most children and that's okay. He is God's masterpiece and he makes no mistakes.

Autism is the silly little voice I use with my cat, singing a nonsensical song that she continues to ignore. It’s when I look into the mirror and watch my tummy jiggle because no one tells me that’s weird.  Cameras are just another set of eyes that I struggle to interact with in a socially acceptable manner, but as a cosplayer I love having my picture taken. My chaos, my borderline-inappropriate quips; everything that makes me different is something to love.

Without autism, I don't think I'd be the artist I am currently becoming. I used to believe that it was some sort of burden to the people who surround me on a daily basis, but it really isn't, and I've realized that the older I’ve gotten.

Autism in my life looks like struggle but also beauty, delays but also advantages, and a unique way of experiencing the world.

Shawn is a spunky little boy who loves to laugh, smile, and live life as authentically as he can. He doesn't let his autism create any barriers for him, being such a determined child. He is always on the go with boundless energy and takes us all on a crazy journey with him!

My diagnosis changed my life. Instead of constantly fighting myself by trying to fit in, I was finally able to embrace what makes me different. The peace of mind that has brought me is priceless.

Ruby is a priceless gem who lives life with Epilepsy and Autism. Cognitive delays and sensory and social differences place on her the weight of constantly interpreting her surroundings and remembering or relearning how to adapt and respond. She teaches everyone in her path how to see every day as a gift, to see uniqueness as beautiful, and to treat all people as valuable. 

I’m Phia, and I have AuDHD. I struggle with sensory issues, overstimulating environments, and big crowds, but they don’t hold me back. I’ve learned to be accommodating of myself, use tools to help me get through a world not built for me, and surround myself with friends who accept me for me and understand what I’m going through.

Getting my AuDHD diagnosis at 38 was something I didn't know I needed, and it's been life-changing! It allows me to love myself with true compassion and got me to stop fighting myself as much as I had been. Living with chronic health issues has been hard, but now I am able to be gentle with myself, and I look forward to living my authentic life out loud!

Autism in our life looks like patience, looking at the world from many different points of view, and accepting everyone for who they are! Small moments to others equate to large milestones for us!

Noah is 13, happy, and fun to be around. I am very curious and enjoy nature, stuffed animals, books, swimming, music, tractor rides, and John Deere Gator rides. I am nonverbal but load and proud. My family is my safe place.

AuDHD has taught me to be braver. I have to be brave to be vulnerable in a world that is too loud and bright and busy and stressful and unkind.  And I’m learning a big part of that strength to be vulnerable comes from loving myself as I am; which can be too loud or too withdrawn, too brash or too timid, full of words or struck mute.  All of this is the messy, glorious, crazy, genuine, full of life, ME!"

In our life, autism looks like slowing down, making thoughtful plans, attending many therapies, learning sign language and using an AAC device, adapting to challenges, and getting creative along the way. It also means advocating for his needs, ensuring his safety, and sometimes fighting with insurance companies so he gets the support he deserves. Through it all, he experiences so much love and joy and feels everything so deeply.

Mekayla says that having autism feels like the everyday normal for her life; it's her core. She sees herself just like anyone else, but doesn't mind being a little different. She states that having autism makes someone unique and interesting.

I'm a nerd and quite in love with gaming in general. Autism is both difficult and wonderful for me. I feel more centered now that I know I'm autistic.

Kylar is an 11-year-old boy with Autism and ADHD, as well as nonverbal. Kylar shows the world every day that love needs no words. If you meet someone on their level, it is amazing what greatness they can achieve.

I've built a normal-looking life and held down a job all the while feeling like I do not belong on this planet. I've absolutely known that I was different since as early as I can remember, but wasn't able to explain how until getting diagnosed with autism and ADHD at age 56. Literally nothing could be more important than your brain and understanding how your brain works, yet society is profoundly lacking in awareness and support for neurodiversity and mental health in general.

Julio is a smart, loving, spunky, little boy who loves jumping and laughing and playing games with people. At the end of the day, being the family of a child with autism is very hard, but we wouldn’t change it for the world.

Autism is so interwoven into who Joe is that it’s impossible to imagine him any other way. This social, music-loving jokester is going places, and he’s spreading joy the whole way

Jaylee is a remarkable young girl whose world is shaped by routine, structure, and consistency. Living with autism and a severe intellectual disability, her days rely on predictability to help her feel safe and avoid overwhelming moments. When those routines are in place, Jaylee is able to navigate her day with confidence, showing just how capable and resilient she truly is