Dedication and Thank You

As I believe was apparent based solely on the absurd amount of written content I provided as well as the things I discussed (which you may or may not have read, either way), it’s for now, ready to be birthed into the universe as the greatest labor of love (I have not nor will I likely ever use ChatGPT to write anything, certainly not of this magnititude. As a writer, that hurts my soul. Having said that, you do you. As you have likely realized, I’m a different sort of human person). Plus, there’s that thing about me doing things the hardest way possible. 

So, I’m going to categorize this in the order that suits me, which does not imply that and all of the individuals I will thank are being listed in any specific order, so if you happen to be on the list, please do not read into it. 

My guides, guardians, spirits, and the diving workings of the universe. None of the this was anything I would have done without the knowledge that this very truly was my path. Which is also why I am putting this into the universe in the manner I am because I am fully aware that absolutely none of this is about me. I am very very blessed to recognize that. 

Every individual whom I have been blessed enough to work with as well as their families when that opportunity was available has taught me a key piece of this puzzle, has shaped my trajectory as a humanitarian for the very real fact that they have shown me some of the most beautiful moments in my life in what were often extremely unlikely places. While ASD is not what I am by legal qualifications regarding degree/licensure/certification ideally suited to work with, I learned exactly what I needed to for this specific path. I also have devoted the remainder of my professional life to advocating for both of these disorders, and will hopefully clarify what from where I’m standing is a significant amount of drastic misunderstanding. In order to prevent all those risks I discuss, that are both probable and tremendously concerning, from becoming a reality. It is a tremendously humbling gift to be able to advocate for those who are  incapable of advocating for themselves. That one moment I discussed from my undergrad internship, the little hand landing gently on my shoulder belonging to one incredible  little boy was in hindsight, the moment when I was unofficially nominated for this role. 

My Destiny, both the one who was at one point a physical entity, and ultimately, the powerful force that guided my “leap of faith” to let go of my “familiar misery” and see what I would possibly find by following her call. It hasn’t always been easy, but it has very much been worth it.

My children, who have given me more understanding of human nature than any human ever possibly has. They are in many ways also to be credited with offering the greatest amount of love, healing and support without condition, judgment, and asking for precious little in return. My little blue girls particularly, but they have all taught me, loved me, and embraced as part of their herd. 

My two sisters, my biological AB, who from birth was my North star and frame of reference. Thanks for letting me make it to the age of 45 before I realized that it is uncommon to have a 30-minute conversation comprised entirely of quotes from 90’s era SNL skits, shared beloved books, movies, and music lyrics. You’ve always strived to be my protector, and I have always strived to live up to accomplishing one iota of what you have.

My lil (spirit sis, aka my muse) you gave me the crash course in understanding SPD long before I heard the words. No matter how your life trajectory unfolds, I hope I get to be on the sidelines to cheer you on. Something tells me that you’re going to be a force unto your own (In the best way possible), so the world had best be prepared. I do believe I mentioned that we’re a lot alike.

My human support system, in no particular order: My Heidi, you’ve been a solid, unwavering support for over 2.5 decades, even when I gave you numerous reasons not to. Kels, for being the one individual who managed to both stay the course throughout the torture that was Medaille, and remain as staunchly like-minded. The lady G…you taught me so much more than the random circumstances of our encounter together would have ever predicted. You’ve been a tried and true friend, especially when it came to providing perspective. BB, you’ve been like the big brother I always wanted and the individual who has served most like my priest (in all the pure and best possible ways) taking the weight off my shoulders literally and figuratively. TB, it’s ironic that the most unlikely of my little group of beloveds who on paper has the least in common with myself, has been one of the few to remain steadfast despite the massive changes. Yet you have been cheering me on this entire time, and you’ve truly been there when I have needed someone the most. Jill, despite the ride, you’ve remained unwavering. Manu, we’ve just started our journey together, but I am so delighted to get to watch what magic is about to happen for you. Last but certainly not least, Hil…you truly have been the wind beneath my wings. 

Mentors, past and present: Grampa, there are no words. I’m just glad you have put up with me for over a quarter of a century to watch the remarkable transformation from freshman in undergrad to who I have become. MF, you most certainly have helped me learn exactly what it is that I am made of. Every time I was convinced I had hit a limit, you pushed me past it. That is tremendously powerful. Dr. DCB, thank you for being an ally when everyone else at that time was trying to destroy me. I hope you’ll stumble upon this at some point, give you some closure if that’s something that happens to matter to you. 

Then there were those who taught me absolutely everything that I am and never will become. You tried to destroy me in some of the most insidious, reprehensible ways possible, and you only made me stronger. For that, I thank you sincerely. That list includes my parents, Dr. JMB, Dr. TKJ, Dr. LHM, Dr. ER, Dr. RB Jr, JD. For every bully - child or adult - for everyone who told me I “couldn’t”, you just made me turn right around and say “Have a seat while I take to the sky”. I do hope y’all are sitting down.

Last but certainly not least have been my partner in doing the parts of building this that I couldn’t begin to do on my own. Please allow me to introduce my Amazing Grace Uppendahl, the site builder and designer, and the one who is in charge of marketing, helping this information reach as many people as possible, which I could never have done without her. The content is my dissertation to the world, the design, layout, and all other areas of creative genius rest squarely on her lovely shoulders. This has equally been her Opus.