Thriving Special Families

Before Autism Was A Thing: Insight From An Autism Self-Advocate

Crystal Sanford, M.Ed., M.A. CCC-SLP Season 1 Episode 20

Autism is now one of the most prevalent diagnosis for children in the US. But, what about 20 years ago, before "Autism was a thing"? Join us to learn about one man's extraordinary journey with Autism.

J.R Reed
 Is a late-diagnosed autism and neurodiversity self-advocate with Asperger's. He was out of high school for a decade before autism began being diagnosed in children, and, as he likes to say, he, "Grew Up Without a Spectrum To Be On." Now, J.R. advocates for others with autism and developmental disabilities along with his service dog and faithful companion, Tye.

J.R. Reed  preaches Neurodiversity and does it all from a log cabin in the Missouri Ozarks.  J.R. blogs, speaks, and writes on a wide variety of topics affecting adults with developmental disabilities.  He’s spoken to groups, companies and at the Missouri State Capitol.  You can find out more about J.R., see some of his writing, and what he has in the works at NotWeirdJustAutistic.com.

Crystal Sanford, M.Ed.. M.A. CCC-SLP
Is the owner and director of Sanford Autism Consulting (https://www.sdautismhelp.com​), a consulting practice offering IEP advocacy and parent empowerment classes for fellow special needs families throughout the U.S. Crystal specializes in supporting fellow families impacted by Autism, as well as other unique challenges such as learning disabilities and ADHD. To learn more about IEP assistance and help advocating for the special education your child deserves, contact Crystal at info@sdautismhelp.com.


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