I am Greg.
I am an adult living with Asperger Syndrome, or high-functioning autism. In establishing this website, I hope to share my experiences living on the autism spectrum, and provide hope and resources for others living with similar challenges. This site is a work in progress so I hope you will check for updates often and send resource links that you would like to share with the community of adults who are living with Asperger Syndrome.
When I was born, the study of psychiatric and developmental disorders was still in its infancy. Throughout my childhood, my parents searched for answers to my behavior, emotional and developmental delays, and found little guidance. Due to lack of research and understanding of my condition, doctors and diagnosticians were inconclusive about my diagnosis and I was initially labeled “mentally retarded”.
As I struggled to assimilate into the mainstream I found many obstacles. Public school systems of that era were not equipped to meet the challenges and needs of a child like me, and at age 6, I was placed at the St. Coletta School in Hannover, Massachusetts – a residential school for children with developmental disorders. After 9 years at St. Coletta’s, I was sent to the Gables Academy in Coral Gables, Florida. I later transferred to Memorial High School in Houston, Texas, from where I graduated. After many years of hard work and determination, I graduated from Mitchell College with an Associates Degree and a Bachelors of Business from Texas Christian University.
Pronounced “cured” after successfully graduating from college, I still struggled with daily life. For many years I was underemployed or unemployed and I found myself searching for answers. This search would take 25 years, and finally with the help of my long-term therapist, I was tested and diagnosed with Aspergers.
In spite of my limitations I look for innovative ways to be a productive member of society. I regularly volunteer with Rainbow Days, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, a church food bank and The American Red Cross.