Kel (they/them) is in their late 20’s and didn’t learn of their autism until their second year of college. This helped them get the tools they needed to graduate on time but also gave them a sense of community. A lot of their early life was given more context. Now, they work as a self-advocate, helping other people just like them. They like to play video games, board games, write, draw, act, and cosplay in their spare time. They also are fond of their family pets; four dogs and a cat.
View all postsTurning 30
Posted on
Trigger warning: This blog briefly discusses depression and suicidal thoughts.
I recently turned 30, and it’s been weird to say the least. I never really thought I’d make it this far, especially as a teenager who dealt with really bad depression. There are lots of things I haven’t done yet, but also a lot of things I have done.
I got over my severe fear of dogs and now love four of them. It seemed impossible growing up afraid of just seeing a dog, but now it’s easy (especially since the ones I know now love me so much). I have a steady income and a job I really enjoy. That seemed so much harder than it ended up being for me. I know I’m lucky in that regard, but it’s a nice feeling still. I graduated from college on time, which felt impossible back then. I regret a few things about those days, but I’m proud of what I accomplished.
I wish it was easier for me to get help with what I still want to achieve. I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to drive on my own, but I want to get more help. I want to be able to afford my own place and get around without needing my parents or other relatives. I need more help taking care of what I do have; cleaning isn’t my strong suit.
I would also rather people not treat turning 30 like a death sentence. Online it’s hard enough to find friends with similar interests, and a lot of people can be mean once they hear how old I am. I know some of the stories you hear can make it scary, but being kind to people should be easy no matter the age difference. It can make it hard to engage in hobbies I once loved, like cosplay. That shouldn’t be the case.
I’m kind of rambling now; I guess it’s hard to write about this concisely. I’m really proud of my accomplishments, know I have so much more to learn and achieve, and hope the world only gets better (we seriously need it!).
Kel
