Diane's story

Diane reached out to me a few months ago, following a diagnosis of autism in adulthood Diane was struggling with how this had affected her, with what her future would hold and how she would navigate through this. Diane was aware we did not have any qualifications or specific training in relation to autism - but what we could offer was a friend. Someone to confide in, someone to vent to, someone to open up to, someone to offer support in whatever way possible - that someone was Cheryl.

Very quickly a good and trustworthy relationship was established.

Cheryl listened and worked hard to help and understand some of the challenges Diane was experiencing, looking for ways to ease stresses in day to day life.

A list was formed together, one with daily living tasks that Diane wanted to work on, banking, shopping, cooking….

The other was social activities that Diane wanted to do with support, go to the cinema, or bowling ….

Well to say Diane and Cheryl are smashing it out the park is an understatement.

Together they are planning to cook something out of a cookbook they have been looking at, they plan to shop first to source all the ingredients then get to work.

Now shopping alone brings huge amounts of anxiety and stress for Diane, the noise, the lights, the people! It’s a big deal but I know with Cheryl’s support she will conquer this.

A few weeks again together they went to ten pin.

Again the noise, the lights, the people were just some of the hurdles in Diane’s way. She battled every single one and stayed the duration of the visit, they explored the building played some games of basketball and air hockey ( we won’t mention who won )

They also walked around the bowling alleys so Diane can prepare to come back and play a game of bowling.

I personally was bursting with pride that this visit has gone to plan and actually turned out better that we had hoped for.

Diane words to me were Cheryl in her opinion goes over and above to support Diane. She does her research and looks for ways to make life that little bit easier, they have such a strong connection in such a short time the future looks so promising.

Diane then requested to increase to twice a week, I then introduced Kelly, Kelly did everything I hope for a more. She quickly established a strong connection with Diane, at times pushed her out her comfort zone a little but knew her limits. Together they enjoy runs in the car to Glamis castle, Glendoick Garden Centre, book stores, chrystal stores the list goes on and on, but one things for sure they have fun, they have serious and supportive conversations and ultimately have formed a lovely friendship.

Seeing Diane's confidence grow week by week has been amazing to watch, her courage, strength and determination to take control and live her life to the fullest at the age of 50 is just outstanding. With the support of Cheryl and Kelly Diane wants to focus on budgeting, learning more life skills, creating a sanctuary to live in is just the beginning.

Diane often thanks us for our support and friendship, but really we are thankful for her.

She has taught us all so much already, sometimes life throws you some curveballs but with support we get through - some easier than others. Diane highlighted so many factors in her autism that in fact myself Cheryl and Kelly could relate to. We are learning more about ourselves thanks to Diane.