Asperger's - My Purpose is Bigger than My Fear | Gretchen McIntire | TEDxNatick

At age 23, Gretchen was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (formerly Asperger Syndrome) which motivated her to find her own voice and spark hope in those who feel alone. Gretchen shares personal and often witty stories of her travails and achievements. She is a children’s book author under the pen name Gretchen Leary, a speaker, and the Executive Director of a nonprofit called BostonCalm that serves those with Autism and Tourette syndrome. Gretchen is a children’s book author under the pen name Gretchen Leary, a speaker, and the Executive Director of a nonprofit called BostonCalm that serves those with Autism and Tourette syndrome. Her diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (formerly Asperger Syndrome) at the age of twenty-three helped her find her voice and inspired her to do whatever she can to spark hope in those who feel alone. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@terrycavender]

Similar to my story, not fitting in, school, jobs, most places. The shame as well, particularly that one. More than once I heard, "We don't know what's wrong with you, but, we don't like you very much." This was coming from my own family... Understanding what was going on with me was a relief, so I was not bad, broken, wrong, etc., I just was different.

[@terrycavender]

@Joshua Kaminski no thanks, did it on my own, go push your lies some place else.

[@gretchenmcintire2000]

And being different can be such a blessing! :) - Gretchen

[@terrycavender]

@@gretchenmcintire2000 yes, it can once you know what's going on, these days it's caught early, and adjustments are made. Back in the day, the early sixties, I was nothing more than a "discipline problem," in a time of expected conformity. I got my hands on my old school records from then, and, after looking at where I was "failing," it was easy to see autistic traits. Seems like every "gift," has a downside, at least now I can limit them by being aware when I'm having issues.

[@gretchenmcintire2000]

@@terrycavender Self awareness has helped me grow so much with coping.

[@terrycavender]

@@gretchenmcintire2000 which is all we can do when we live in a world not made for us..... 🙄 I call it "dancing in the minefield." I call my "humorous masking," "the dancing monkey." People say, "OMG! You are so funny! Like Robin Williams!" Glad you are entertained, my nurotypical friend.... 🙄 Another comment when I explain why something like noise bothers me because I'm autistic, "but you seem so normal." 🙄 Years of practice baby! 🤣 BTW..... I'm me everywhere.... Just look for the avatar.

[@JaclynHuntasnlifecoach]

You showed here the power of 1 person making an impact on your life. Imagine a world where we all lift each other up. Imagine the power of us all! Your story is beautiful Gretchen. Thank you for the glimpse into your world.

[@drewgibbons4799]

Compassion, self acceptance, creative living, all seemed pretty clear to me. What immense courage it must take to stand before so many people and cameras and talk about some of the most difficult times in one's life. Drew

[@sallyjrgensen7117]

I like her she seems like a nice person 😊

[@ruth6833]

Amazing woman....what insights...Beautiful! I need to read her books 😃

[@gretchenmcintire2000]

Hi Ruth! It’s so nice to meet you! Thank-you for your kind words. :)

[@andobil]

I have Asperger's too... This is so inspiring...

[@chrisholland2016]

She's about to be my life coach too.

[@gretchenmcintire2000]

And I am SO proud of you!!!

[@silascochran9705]

A beautiful story I struggle with Asperger's it is gone undiagnosed and I have been diagnosed with so many things and no one could see what was right in front of them I will have to get back to my writing I made the mistake of letting people get me down they can be rotten

[@gretchenmcintire2000]

Hi Silas! Don’t ever give up! You’ve got this too. We are stronger than we could ever imagine.

[@pizzaki582]

you can not be diagnosed with Aspergers, cause it simply has been retired. you are on the autism spectrum.

[@almasteleushev3568]

beatiful

[@Meghan3]

Love that speech 😎🌈

[@boywithadolphin]

Why are calling it a disorder? It is a gift.

[@Yenkna_PCs]

Why do they call neurotypical people "Normal" when it's only a setting on a washer and dryer.

[@Yenkna_PCs]

Why do they call neurotypical people "Normal" when it's only a setting on a washer and dryer.

[@jimplummer4879]

I grew up going to church on Sunday with my family, And was told I had ants in my pants because I couldn't sit still. I know now it was because of sensory issues.

[@jimplummer4879]

So true only people on the spectrum no the problems and what would help.

[@christopherfoster101]

I feel the opposite.

[@Bpkoiralassam]

Iam here to learn english

[@remas3010]

me to

[@forzebrazilian9122]

3

[@tos100returns]

@@remas3010 too

[@danielfinger6223]

So said jesus

[@tos100returns]

Nah, the fictional character of Jesus said NOTHING about Autism. Never. What you've just done here is called "bearing false witness," which is a fancy name for lying.

[@sunitasing9622]

Toad talks.....trr.trr.trr.trr.trr

[@williamoarlock8634]

Your parents *money* is bigger than your fear.

[@filipeflower]

How can you tell? Do you actually know these people? If so, prove it. If not, shut it.

[@williamoarlock8634]

@@filipeflower All the 'happy aspies' clearly have well-off parents that get them 'great support groups'. Aren't you the one stalking, el stupido?

[@williamoarlock8634]

@@filipeflower You shut it, stalker.

[@filipeflower]

@@williamoarlock8634 Oh, this comming from the same user who's been stalking a lot of people on multiple videos. That's you, in case you can't tell.

[@williamoarlock8634]

@@filipeflower Projection.

[@theimaginarygallery5935]

So she is artistic. Where is her art?

[@Yenkna_PCs]

That's Autistic. I wish people would stop making fun of people with problems.

[@tos100returns]

She's not Bri'ish.

[@chicagolandable]

No inspiration whatsoever.