Growing up as an undiagnosed autistic person was an incredibly isolating experience. From a very young age the world didn’t feel set up for me. It always felt like I missed a class about social interactions and communication that everyone else around me got to take. I had to learn through struggle and confusion to attempt to get my needs met. I felt like I had to scream to be heard.

I haven’t wanted anyone to have to feel as lost as I did, and because of this I do the work that I do with Plant It Again. With so much intention and care, as a disabled neurodivergent art instructor/lead I get the opportunity to give others the attention, care, thoughtfulness, they deserve. Everyone deserves this kind of care. 

From a young age, when words failed me as a way to express myself, I looked to art. Art and creating had no judgement, no rules, no overwhelming instructions, no rigid expectations but instead consistency, safety emotion and wordless expression. Having the opportunity to share this with others brings me so much joy. You can get to know someone so much through how they express themselves.

At work, I show up authentically, unmasked and confidently, knowing I am entering an accessible and safe community space. Plant It Again has shown me its possible to be authentically disabled, queer & trans and be respected, encouraged, loved and seen exactly as I am.