My New Birthday!

"I'm going to confirm the diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome." Those were the words spoken by the wonderful psychiatrist Dr. W, a leading expert on diagnosing adults with suspected Asperger's syndrome.

It was 11:39 a.m. on April, 24th 2009.

My mother and I had just spent over an hour with Dr. W., going over details of my childhood, history of my failed friendships, and odd mannerisms, and he gave me the best gift of my entire life.

Sorry, mum and daddy, the trip to Disney World was lovely, but my diagnosis is the best thing that's ever happened to me!

Solid, irrevocable proof that I am NOT crazy.

I cried.

I remember l looked at him, and asked, "you mean, I'm not crazy?" He gently replied "no, you're not crazy. It's not a mental illness, in fact it isn't even a disease. You were born like this, and it's a simply a different way of thinking"

I meet with Dr. W again next Friday, along with his assistant, for what I imagine will be the last time, for them to answer our questions. Dr. W. admits there is little help available where I live, if I lived in a different country, there would be more help available. He did say that he is willing to sit down with me and write a letter to my current employer, explaining Asperger's Syndrome.

Some of my many questions are:

1) What are the chances of me being able to learn how to drive a car?
2) In terms of a career choice, what are areas you suggest I stay away from?
3) What type of support, if any is available?
4) Do you suggest I mention the diagnosis during a job interview?

A huge weight was lifted off my shoulders. I finally have the courage to believe that I can accept who I am, and nobody can ever tell me to change. I am not wholly defined by this neurological disorder, but is a part of me, a huge one.

Is there anybody else out there, who felt a huge sense of relief when they received the diagnosis?