My Struggle with Rare Health Issues

I’ve been on this planet as an undiagnosed autistic person for almost 50 years. Starting to grow up just 45 years ago, I’ve been considered borderline autistic. The truth is that I had some other issues that probably helped cause the autism-like condition. Thankfully, I was surrounded by just enough good family, friends, and good teachers that I didn’t feel suicidal. But, I’ve had a painful life that has led me down an unusual road.

I managed to get good grades. From grades 7–12, I got straight As. This didn’t come easy and I studied almost every day of the school year from 3–12 hours. I also managed to play on the high school soccer team which kept me in shape and probably helped me mentally as well as physically.

However, I tried to avoid every social situation that I could and being nearly locked up in a classroom where the teacher did most of the talking helped me avoid uncomfortable environments where I didn’t have to talk.

I also have some neurological issues which makes for a rare and unusual condition that I have a hard time talking about. Doctors are clueless about how to treat my rare conditions too. I pretty much can’t be wearing clothing for more than a minute or so before I become nearly insane. More on that in another story.

I grew up in the late-70s to the mid-90s. My junior high and high school were top-notch. Growing up in Davis, California, I didn’t realize how good I had it until I got out in the real world. As far as personal issues, it was a don’t ask…