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[autistpride]

So ends April Autism Acceptance Month.

This post is simply reminders.

First to the NT parents and others in general. Remember the way you treat autistic adults now is how you are telling the world to treat autistic children when they grow up. Be that your own child, your relative, your friends child, etc. Support all autistic people!

Second to all the autists and other ND people. Be yourself, love yourself. And as one of my favourite fictional characters in a fanfiction says, "live your life, enjoy your life"! ♥️

[autistpride]

[autistpride]

[autistpride]

Is James having a lie in or a really good morning? I'll leave that for you to decide. ;)

[autistpride]

[autistpride]

(Same asker as before hehe) Thank you for the kind words! You made me feel a lot better about some of the things I do, and about the research I've been doing :] I'd love to hear your suggestions for things that help you out! I'm always up for working on myself and finding things that can help me be better as a person, friend, family member, etc :D

This is honestly a hard ask to answer. I have a lot of modifications and accommodations in place that help me or my kids.

So many that to list them all would take a while and even then I know I would miss some.

What I can do is refer you to some of my previous posts that talk about things and give tips and then also give some suggestions for specific things you want to know about.

Here are two such posts. If you view my tag autism acceptance month you'll find informational posts (talking about masking, hyperfocus, meltdowns/shutdowns, the history of Autism, and more) as well as lists of things like books you may find helpful.

If you want to ask about any specific things just ask. :)

As mentioned before I use nosie cancelling headphones. I also use loops. I always have mine either with me or on.

I use an AAC app. I'll post a few SS of the ones I use and like. I like weave chat cause you can add contacts and send what you want to say to them. It's a little more steps to add your own phrases but it's also super well done that they have a ton of options already on there! But speech assistant is oftentimes faster for me to use because there's no pictures and I read fairly quickly. I also feel like it's easier to add my own phrases in this one. I also use texting and the sticky notes app as a way of just writing things down to send to people or hold up for people to read. I use these on my phone because it's a more compact device and I always have it with me.

[autistpride]

Hi.. I hope you don't mind a bit of a long ask. So I've seen from your posts that you have autism, and I was wondering if I could have your opinion on something. More recently I've been questioning if I might have autism myself, but I'm really unsure about it and my family seems pretty adamant that I don't. The main reason that they think I don't is because they're used to stereotypes, and they don't think I could have it because I understand and use a lot of sarcasm, even though I've told them that it's a spectrum and everyone is different. Of course I know that your opinion won't make up for an official diagnosis, but as of now I'm too embarrassed to even mention that I MIGHT have it, because if I'm wrong I'll feel like one of those people who fakes disorders or something. So, if you're willing to listen, I was going to list out some of the traits that I've been called 'weird' or 'alien' over, and see if maybe you think they could possibly mean autism? I hope that's okay with you 😅

•I always get the exact same foods from restaurants that I go to frequently. If they don't have what I usually get, I most likely won't eat anything at all.

•Speaking of those foods, I always eat them in the exact same order. The burger, then the fries, then the nuggets. The breadsticks, then the fish, then the shrimp, y'know? I don't know when or why I started doing this, I've just sort of always done it.

•I have a huge problem staying still, something that I get very self conscious about in public. I'm always tapping my feet, rocking back and forth, clicking something in my hands, chewing on water bottle caps, and just generally refusing to sit in one spot. I also love to pace when I'm trying to formulate ideas, as I feel it really helps me think.

•I can't stand wearing jeans. I mean I won't go crazy if I have to, but they always make me feel restricted. I thought for a while that it was just how restricting they were, but I've found that other tight pants don't make me feel the same way?

•I DESPISE nail files. I can't explain it, but just the sensation of that sandpaper-like stuff rubbing against my nails activates my fight or flight response, I just feel like bolting it gives me bad goosebumps all over.

•I hyperfixate on stuff hard, I pick things up quick but also drop them hard. Recently I picked up DC/Batfam as a hyperfixation and I've been fully leaning into it ever since, spending pretty much all of my time making art or stories about it (Or at the very least thinking about the characters in some way). However back a few years ago I was hyperfixated on Markiplier Egos, and then one day I just.. Dropped it out of nowhere, and haven't been able to pick it back up since.

•This one's really iffy but I feel like I get irritated a lot super super easily, and I used to think it was just anger issues but for one: It's almost never something to get upset about, and for two: It usually happens when I've been talking to someone for a little too long or when someone interrupts my quiet time. So if we're going with the whole maybe autism thing, it might be overstimulation..? Idk..

•I'm super light sensitive, pretty much every time I go outside I say 'Wow it's bright out there" when I come back in. It's so noticeable that I used to not only notice, but attribute it to an eye injury I had once. Except that injury wasn't serious and is fully healed, so that's probably not it.

•I have a lot of trouble speaking sometimes. I feel like my words never come out the way that I want them to, and I often end up slurring them around so much that what I'm trying to say becomes pretty much incomprehensible, which always makes me frustrated because I get misunderstood a lot.

•I don't really understand what other people are feeling most of the time, and I get annoyed when they won't just tell me what they want instead of vaguely hinting about it and expecting me to know what they need.

•I'm always being told to speak up because I 'mumble', even though I think I'm talking at an acceptable volume.

•I ramble. A lot. (Sorry 😭👍)

But yeah, those are just some of the thing that I've been jokingly called 'strange' for over the years. Like I said earlier, I know that your opinion is nothing like an actual diagnosis, but hearing your thoughts on whether or not I might have it would mean a lot to me since you're someone who's been diagnosed!

Hi annon!

Let me preface this by saying I'm so proud of you for really taking the time to think about all this and dig into your life and behaviors.

Then to ask someone about it is very brave!

I wish there was a way to reply without showing your entire ask message. I feel terrible sharing your private thoughts with everyone.

I'm not a professional so I don't feel qualified to say yes or no. And as much as I want to give you some reassurance, I can't give you something definite. Especially when I don't know you in order to form a proper opinion.

Yes many of those things are things that indicate you could be autistic.

There is a lot of overlap and they could be things related to other Neurodivergent diagnosis such as ADHD, anxiety, OCD, etc and not just autism.

However, I will say if you're even questioning if you're autistic it's a pretty good chance you're autistic or some kind of Neurodivergent. Most neurotypical people often don't think this hard on if they could be autistic or not. 😉

You have put a lot of thought into this and my suggestion is to keep researching and doing what you're doing. Keeping notes also if you'd like. Why?

Because....

1. Keeping notes and continuing research allows you to have a record of everything.

2. The notes would also come in handy for if you ever seek an assessment.

3. With more time, you will become more self aware and confident in your thoughts on what you believe about if you're autistic. You can then sit down with your family and explain why you think you're autistic.

4. If the comes a time you'd like to try an assessment, you can talk to a gp or therapist if you have one and have them place the appropriate things for you to have that done. Your family needn't be part of the process if you're of legal age. But you may need adult permission for the evaluation if you are considered a minor.

5. Self diagnosis is valid in the autism community. Its valid because a diagnosis is very challenging for many to obtain, and in some situations dangerous.

This doesn't mean someone just wakes up one morning and says "oh I think I'm autistic today". No. They have done hours and hours of research and evaluated their own life, mannerisms, and behaviors, and said "I really think I'm autistic."

Self diagnosised individuals get the benefit of knowing themselves and finding support in the community without ever getting access to supports any official way. They can't get school/work accomodations, financial assistance, medical/mental health services, or really any supports put in place that require an official diagnosis to obtain.

Some would claim self diagnosis isn't valid due to exactly what you pointed out, making a claim of a diagnosis without qualifications and due to the huge overlap and other factors, but the wait times, cost, and unfortunately things like race and gender are barriers to obtaining an assessment and diagnosis. I know in the UK the current NHS wait time is 7-10 years unless you go private. I know in the US getting an assessment as an adult is challenging as most professionals won't evaluate people over 18 and the cost is upwards to $7k depending on location because most insurances won't cover it.

You are always welcome to continue messaging me. I'm happy to answer any questions and I honestly enjoy talking to people when I can.

And in case no one's told you

You're not broken, a burden, and there is nothing wrong with you!

Be your best and amazing self! ✨

[autistpride]

[autistpride]

Autism Acceptance

Prompt 11: Coffee shop AU

Wordcount: 1000

@wolfstarmicrofic

Remus had trouble finding work. He put in applications everywhere, for any position, because he was desperate. Despite passing all his courses and gaining the required GCSE’s, he bombed his interviews. So he had told his parents that he would take a gap year instead and get some work experience. Only no one called him for an interview and the few that had, turned him away within minutes.

After nearly two months, Remus finally came clean to his parents about his lack of employment. His mum had to hold his dad back from giving a few of the places he applied a piece of his mind. Never one to allow Remus to give up, Lyall decided he would open up his own coffee shop and hire Remus as an employee.

Everything moved quickly and soon The Full Moon Cafe opened its doors. A small quaint little hole in the wall shop that mixed coffee, library, and children’s playground together. One corner of the shop held a little indoor climbing structure, slide, and foam floors for children. The other two walls were covered floor to ceiling in books that people donated. The last wall housed the single unisex toilet and the tiny kitchenette space. It also had the counter and display case that showed off the day’s delicious baked goods that his mum made fresh every morning. 

It took Remus some time to get used to the position and how to make all the different drinks, but everyone was patient with him. By the time his gap year was over, Remus was a pro and asked to stay on instead of trying for university again. He had learned all the regulars names, memorised their orders, and even went so far as to have them ready for when they walked in. Remus hadn’t encountered a rude customer or a confusing order once, that could also have to do with the fact that it was a fairly small town and everyone knew everyone. No one came into the cafe that didn’t know Remus was autistic, at least not until Sirius Black. 

The bell dinged over the cafe door and the prettiest guy Remus had ever seen walked in one after the other. Remus had never seen anyone like them before. They were total opposites yet so oddly the same.

“I’ll have an iced Ristretto, ten shot, venti with breve. five pumps vanilla, seven pumps caramel, and four Splenda poured not shaken, but placed into a trenta cup so it doesn’t splash out the top.”

The look on Remus’ face must have betrayed him because the man looked at Remus and immediately changed his order. “On second thought, I’ll just have a tea.”

Remus nodded and rang the man up, asking for his name. 

“Sirius. Yes I am serious. Sirius, like the star,” the man said while pulling his hair back into a scrunchie he apparently kept in his pocket.

Remus wrote the name on the cup and poured the hot water into it, placing the loose leaf tea into a disposable tea bag and setting it into the cup to steep before handing it to Sirius, the star. 

Sirius nodded his thanks and set up at a small table near the entrance. 

For the following four days later Sirius came back, once again ordering a tea and nothing more. Remus didn’t work weekends, instead his friend James took those shifts. James played football with the local club and attended courses at university during the week, so he took all the weekend shifts.

Remus couldn’t get Sirius out of his head all weekend and when he showed up for work on Monday, Sirius was there right at opening. 

Another week went by and Remus and Sirius had started to talk more, just general pleasantries and small talk. Sirius never ordered anything more than tea and sometimes a pastry. Remus knew he could make complicated orders and he knew Sirius knew after two weeks sitting in the cafe and listening to some of the complex requests from customers that came in, but Sirius never asked for his original order again. 

That third week, Remus had Sirius’ tea ready by the time he walked in every morning, not unlike the other regulars. Yet what Remus never said was that Remus practised at night after the shop closed up. He was determined to get Sirius’ original order right. It took him another week to manage it, and when he did he cheered and danced around the shop.

Monday of the fourth week, Remus handed  Sirius his order when he showed up. Sirius looked at the cup confused. 

“Remus this isn’t a tea” he said with his brows furrowed and his nose scrunched up.

Remus shook his head no with a grin, “no its not.”

Sirius took a tentative sip of the drink and his eyes widened in surprise, stormy grey meeting golden.

“You made my order.” 

Remus nodded, proud of himself.

Sirius took another drink and moaned as if he was drinking the best thing he had ever tasted.

The noise was absolutely obscene in Remus’ ears and his ears turned dark red and his cheeks flushed. 

“Remus this is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me. You remembered something I told you like a month ago and you, you practised this didn’t you?”

Remus simply shrugged like it was no big deal. 

Sirius set the cup down on the counter before leaning over the counter and wrapping his arms around Remus in the most awkward hug Remus had ever experienced, and he experienced a lot of awkward hugs. 

When Remus didn’t return the hug Sirius dropped his arms and stuttered through another thank you and practically ran to his usual table, forgetting his drink on the counter. 

Remus looked down, seeing the cup, and bit back a laugh before walking it across the cafe to him. 

“Oh fuck thanks,” Sirius mumbled. 

“Hey SIrius?” Remus asked, “can we try that again?”

 Sirius smiled and nodded.

[autistpride]

Signs your child may be autistic

Signs of autism in adults that may have been missed as a child.

If your child is autistic and you relate to these.... remember autism is genetic. ;)

[autistpride]

So my audhd ass can't be bothered to stick to a program, my spoonie self needs the ability to adjust it as needed, and my anxiety hates the public gym.

So I bought a dance mat and downloaded stepmania.

Gonna relive my arcade days teens and use this as a way to be active and all that *jazz hands*

I have put all the DDR songs on that I remember.

Max 2, Extreme 2, Supernova 1 and 2, and yes I shamelessly put all of Cascada and the UK's 80 mix on there.

Does anyone have any specific songs or packs that they recommend?

[autistpride]

Autism Acceptance

Prompt 10: Restaurant AU

Wordcount: 600

@wolfstarmicrofic

“Sirius, could you get table three for me?” Marlene asked Sirius, “I need a smoke break.” 

“Ya sure of course,” Sirius called back before walking over to the table in question and pulling out his notepad and pen. “What can I get for you?” 

“I’m sorry we need a little more time,” a red haired girl said.

Sirius glanced between the two people sitting at the small table and nodded before turning on his heel. Sirius watched from across the dining floor as the red haired teen whispered to the mousy brown haired boy that Sirius assumed was her boyfriend as they looked nothing alike. She seemed worried or anxious Sirius couldn’t tell. The boy seemed to be stressed and upset despite not having even ordered their meals yet. 

Sirius walked back over after a few minutes, “is there anything I can help you with?” He asked.

“No no I’m sorry but we still aren’t ready yet,” She said apologetically.

Sirius looked over at the boy who sat with his head in his hands. 

“Hey, do you need some help?” Sirius asked and the boy didn’t respond.

“You don't have his usual on the menu anymore. He gets it every time. When he tried to order it earlier, the other worker said it wasn’t on the menu. So we’re just trying to find something else.” 

“Ah, I see.” Sirius said softly before noticing the rainbow infinity pin. Sirius knelt down near the teen boy. “Hey, what’s your name?”

“That’s Remus and I’m Lily,” the red haired girl spoke before Remus had a chance to talk. 

“Thank you Lily,” Sirius said sincerely before asking Remus, “What was your usual?”

Remus glanced over at Sirius, his bottom lip trapped between his teeth. After a minute he responded quietly, “California chicken sandwich.

Sirius grinned, “One California chicken sandwich with chips coming right up.”

Remus’ jaw dropped in surprise, “really?”

“Ya really. Anything special I should make sure to tell the cook?” Sirius asked.

Remus worried his lip again and shook his head no. He didn’t want to push his luck.

“Come on Remus. I can tell you want to say something. What is it?” Sirius asked, leaning down. “You can even whisper it to me like it’s a secret.” 

Remus knocked his fists together a few times and then whispered, “I like when they have a smile.”

Sirius's face scrunched up in thought and then nodded. “On it.”

Twenty minutes later Sirius brought out the plates of food. Sirius was glad James was working as the cook that day. He was always willing to make special orders when Sirius asked. 

Sirius set Lily’s food down in front of her and then Remus’ down in front of him. 

Remus looked up at Sirius with widened golden eyes and Sirius winked and said, “I hope you enjoy your meals”. Remus gently pried the top bun off the sandwich and made a very excited squeak. 

Sirius had placed the pickles to be two eyes. He made the eyebrows, pupils, and nose from mustard and the mouth from ketchup. He carefully arranged the lettuce around the top as if it was hair and the avocado around the bottom as if it was shoulders. 

“Woah,” Lily exclaimed from across the table.

When Remus looked up Sirius had vanished. 

The person bringing them their check was their original wait staff and Remus frowned in disappointment. 

“I hope you both had a lovely date,” she said.

“Oh! We’re not together!” Lily said laughing. 

“I’m quite gay,” Remus said, “no offence Lils”

Marlene passed Remus something.

She gave him Sirius’ number.

[autistpride]

Autism Acceptance

Prompt 9: Detective AU

Word count: 1000

@wolfstarmicrofic

Remus grabbed his bag and shrank it down, placing it into his pocket, and stepped from Scrivenshafts . 

“Remus!”

Remus jumped at the sudden exclamation of his name and his eyes rolled before greeting Sirius. “Hello, Sirius. Having a good day?”

“I need your help on a case.”

“I can’t today. I have a lot of homework and I was just about to go get lunch with Lily.”

“Cancel your lunch date with Lils. She’ll understand. You’re having lunch with me instead.” Sirius said as he rounded Remus, threw his arm over Remus’ shoulder, and started walking in the direction of the pub. 

Remus sighed and grumbled, “Well, you didn’t leave me much choice in the matter.”

“That’s the spirit Moony!” Sirius replied with a grin 

Remus sent Lily a patronus explaining the situation and Lily replied, “thoughts and prayers” which forced a bark of a laugh from Sirius. 

“Someone appears to be playing pranks on the students and it isn’t us. They can’t just show up and take my job! You’ll be helping me figure out who.”

“You want me to do what Sirius? You want me to analyse the crime scenes? Stand on the tables in the Great Hall and be a decoy? Do you really think it wise?” Remus snapped

“I think you’re perfect for the job. No one better than you to figure out what the prankster is thinking and help me get two steps ahead.” 

“Because of my furry little problem?” Remus asked confusedly before taking a large gulp of his butterbeer.

“No cause you're autistic.” Sirius said bluntly, causing Remus to cough and choke on the liquid.

Sirius waited a moment for Remus to settle back down. “You’re autistic. You notice patterns and details many others don’t notice. You see things from others perspectives and empathise with others. It makes you the best person for this case. You can use that information to think like the prankster and that's critical for catching them!” 

“You know just because I’m autistic doesn’t mean I could do that.” Remus said, slumping down in his seat with a small flush on his face.

“Don’t underestimate yourself, Moony. I’ve known you for seven years and I know you are very good at finding and recognizing patterns and thinking logically. I mean you are the brains behind some of our more clever pranks. But most importantly, you are good at reading people. I think you’ll excel at catching this mischief maker.”

The two finish up lunch and wave by to Aberforth before returning to the dorm room where Sirius pulls out all the information he gathered over the last few months. Remus poured over all the evidence carefully before asking, “who are your suspects?”

“I have three. First Barty Crouch Jr, second Alice, and the third William Weasley.”

“Isn't Weasley just a first year? What makes him and the others a suspect?’

 “Crouch was seen near several of the crime scenes. Alice was seen talking to the victims before they were pranked. And I overheard Weasley say he likes to prank his parents and siblings at home.” Sirius said, puffing out his chest in pride at all the work he had done so far.

Remus spent the week gathering more information on each of the suspects and observing their behaviour. He even was able to subtly ask other students about the suspects. He took through notes and documented everything he found before approaching Sirius with his findings.

“Based on my research I believe your culprit is Alice. She has a connection to most of the victims, was seen talking to them before they were pranked, and has a history of being aggressive towards those who are bullies.” Remus said.

“Excellent work Remus! I knew you could do it.” Sirius said, standing up and making for the door.

“Sirius! You can’t just confront her about this. You have to be subtle otherwise she might get defensive.” Remus said, blocking the doorway.

Sirius and Remus find Alice easily enough in the common room and stand next to her table.

“What can I help you with?”

Remus glances at Sirius before Sirius speaks, “We’d like to talk to you about the recent pranks.”

“What recent pranks?”

“We’ve been investigating a series of pranks that have been happening that haven’t been caused by us.”

Remus notices Alice’s expression looks startled for a moment but she recovers quickly.

“So were you aware of these pranks?”

“I may have heard about them from some students.”

“And did you know any of the students pranked?”

“You were seen talking to them all before they were pranked.” Remus interrupted.

Remus could tell that Alice was nervous.

“Were you aware that they were pranked shortly after you talked to them?”

“Oh... uh... No I wasn't.” Alice said

“What are you two doing?” Lily asked as she strode across the common room with Pandora. Dorcas and Marlene stood near the portrait looking bored but failing at not looking interested in the way the conversation was going. 

“Alice, come on we'll be late.” Lily said, helping her pack up her books. Pandora whispered to Alice and hugged her before they all huddled together and then disappeared back out of the portrait to whatever they would be late for. 

Remus watched them go and whispered to Sirius, “they are all in on it. Alice is the distraction.”

“What?” Sirius asked, shocked.

“When investigating I noticed a lot of inaccuracies in people’s stories and tonight just proved it. Their mannerisms all indicate that they are actually all working together.”

“So I should chase after them and call them out on it?”

Remus laughed, “Oh pads, you accuse them and you’ll be next in line for their wrath. Let them have their fun.”

Sirius pouted and then perked up, “You know what this means Moons?”

Remus shrugged, “That the Valkyries are better pranksters than us since they have never been caught?”

“No this means we’re in competition now and we can’t lose. A prank war.”

[autistpride]

When a person is killed, especially by parents or caregivers, people's response is that the murderer needs to be locked up for life. Many even support the death penalty. People say that the actions were utterly disgusting and the killer needs to pay what they did. People are hostile toward the murderer.

However, people's views change when autism or disability comes into the picture.

The response is sympathy toward the person who committed the crime. The narrative changes from a cold blooded killer to a parent who suffered and snapped under the burden of caregiving or sometimes even the caregiver who killed because the other options were too unbearable. The term “mercy killing” is commonly used. Those who are convicted in these situations often face less severe sentences.

One study showed that of the homicide cases of autistic individuals under 21, 85% were murdered by their family. 63.5% by their parents, 13.5% by their caregiver, and 7.7% by their siblings.

23.1% died from gunshot wounds, 19.2% from drowning, and 19.2% from strangulation, suffocation, or asphyxiation. The rest from other causes such as neglect, medication overdose, blunt head trauma/physical abuse, fire, stabbed, thrown off a bridge, and unknown causes.

Sadly, the autistic victim's narrative tends to be the one talked about in a poor light. The person was too much to handle, requiring 24/7 care, they were a burden on their families, or they had an intellectual disability.

The murder of an autistic person is still seen as a tragedy, but the act of killing them is dismissed and seen as more permissible than in other murders.

The study showed that of those who committed this heinous act, 47.1% said that the stress of caring for their autistic individual was the contributing factor.

Following a murder of an autistic person, people are upset and demand more disability support. People talk about the need for parental support, respite care, and the like so that things like this don’t happen again. But people also agree not to judge the murderer because they haven’t been in their shoes.

We are in desperate need of greater support for the autism community. But that conversation needs to happen not following the death of another autistic individual because it excuses away the actions of the killer and oftentimes the lack of support is not even the reason why autistic people are murdered.

While services are desperately needed, reacting with murder is simply not normal.

Disability advocates believe murder cases like these have much more to do with our negative stance toward autism and special needs than they do with lack of support and services.

We can’t deny the negativity surrounding our narratives of autism. The “thief in the night” that “steals” an otherwise normal child, the idea that those with the disorder are mere shadows of people, or that autism has "taken a child hostage in their own mind". The unending focus on the “burden” autistic people are.

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network said it best:

“When we say every parent of a disabled child has had moments like this or walk a mile in our shoes or the system failed everyone or but you have to understand how hard it is, we are excusing a parent murdering their child. It does not matter how many times we say not that I would ever condone this: if we attempt to make a parent murdering their child understandable, if we ever attempt to position it as a comprehensible or inevitable or normal thing, if we take and normalize the perspective and the side of abusers and murderers, we are minimizing and excusing this act. Doing so puts the lives of disabled people everywhere in danger.”

There is no moral gray here. Murder of an innocent person, even an autistic one, is wrong and yet it happens all too frequently.

[autistpride]

How many of these famous autists do you recognize? And this isn't even a complete list!

So many amazing wonderful people are autistic. I will never understand why people hate us so much.

Actors/actresses/entertainment:

Chloe Hayden

Talia Grant

Rachel Barcellona

Sir Anthony Hopkins

Dan Akroyd

David Byrne

Darryl Hannah

Courtney Love

Jerry Seinfeld

Roseanne Barr

Jennifer Cook

Chuggaaconroy

Stephanie Davis

Rick Glassman

Paula Hamilton

Dan Harmon

Paige Layle

Matthew Labyorteaux

Wentworth Miller

Desi Napoles

Freddie Odom Jr

Kim Peek

Sue Ann Pien

Henry Rodriguez

Scott Steindorff

Ian Terry

Tara Palmer -Tomkinson

Albert Rutecki

Billy West

Alexis Wineman- Miss America contestant

Athletes:

Jessica- Jane Applegate

Michael Brannigan

David Campion

Brenna Clark

Ulysse Delsaux

Tommy Dis Brisay

Jim Eisenreich

Todd Hodgetts

John Howard

Anthony Ianni

Lisa Llorens

Clay Matzo

Frankie Macdonald

Jason McElwain

Chris Morgan

Max Park

Cody Ware

Amani Williams

Samuel Von Einem

Musicians:

Susan Boyle

Elizabeth Ibby Grace

David Byrne

Johnny Dean

Tony DeBlois

Christopher Dufley

Jody Dipiazza

Pertti Kurikka

James Jagow

Ladyhawke

Kodi Lee

Left at London

Red Lewis Clark

Abz Love

Thristan Mendoza

Heidi Mortenson

Hikari Oe

Matt Savage

Graham Sierota

SpaceGhostPurp

Mark Tinley

Donald Triplett

Aleksander Vinter

Comedians:

Hannah Gatsby

Robert White

Bethany Black

Scientists/inventors/mathematians/Researchers:

Damian Milton

Bram Cohen

Michelle Dawson

Carl Sagan

Writers:

Neil Gaimen

Mel Bags

Kage Baker

Amy Swequenza

M. Remi Yergeau

Sean Barron

Lydia X Z Brown

Matt Burning

Dani Bowman

Nicole Cliffe

Laura Kate Dale

Aoife Dooley

Corrine Duyvus

Marianne Eloise

Jory Flemming

Temple Grandin

John R Hall

Naomi Higashida

Helan Hoang

Liane Holliday Willey

Luke Jackson

Rosie King

Thomas A McKean

Johnathan Mitchell

Jack Monroe

Caiseal Mor

Morenike Giwa- Onaiwu

Jasmine O'Neill

Brant Page Hanson

Dawn Prince-Hughs

Sue Robin

Stephen Shore

Andreas Souvitos

Sarah Stup

Susanna Tamaro

Chuck Tingle

Donna Williams

Leaders:

Julia Bascom

Ari Ne'eman

Sarah Marie Acevedo

Sharon Davenport

Joshua Collins

Conner Cummings

Kevin Healy

Poom Jenson

Amy Knight

Jared O'Mara

David Nelson

Shaun Neumeier

Master Sgt. Shale Norwitz

Jim Sinclair

Judy Singer

Dr. Vernon Smith

Artists:

Miina Akkijjyrkka

Danny Beath

Deborah Berger

Larry John Bissonnette

Patrick Francis

Goby

Jorge Gutierrez

Lina Long

Johnathan Lerman

Julian Martin

Haley Moss

Morgan Harper Nichols

Tim Sharp

Gilles Tehin

Willem Van Genk

Richard Wawro

Poets:

David Eastham

Christopher Knowles

David Miedzianik

Henriette Seth F

[autistpride]

Autism Acceptance

Prompt 8: Bodyswap AU

Word count: 2065

@wolfstarmicrofic

Cw: for the R slur, bullying, harassment physical and verbal assault.

“Oh look, it's loony Lupin,” Sirius called out as Remus walked into the potions classroom.

“Look, I'm Loony Lupin and I’m retarded. Dur dur dur,” Sirius added, bending his wrists and smacking his chest with his limp hands. The other students laughed, some of them copying Sirius’ motions and sounds.

Remus bit his lip and tucked his chin to his chest as he pushed through the students and to his desk at the front of the room near Professor Slughorn. Remus sat down and slowly pulled out his things. On his desk was a parchment already written on. The notes from the board carefully scrawled onto the page in Professor McGonagall’s neat handwriting. The muggle pen and lined notebook paper he was allowed to use instead of the quill and parchment came out first and was quickly followed by his headphones.

“Oh look Lupin has his ear defenders. Saving his poor ears from the silence of the classroom.” Sirius said in a mocking tone.

Remus didn't respond and instead put his headphones on, wrote the course, “advanced potions” and the date at the top of his paper, and then set his pen down before reading over the notes.

Slughorn entered the room and told the class to settle down and take their seats. Remus gasped when his sternum slammed into the table. He glanced over his shoulder to see Sirius sitting directly behind him, feet on the back of his chair, pushing him into the edge of the table. Remus knew from experience that if he touched Sirius and tried to get him to put his feet down, Sirius would complain to his head of house that Remus was hitting him and Remus would get excused to the headmasters office. No one ever believed Remus wouldn’t actually hit someone. Everyone just saw a boy who didn’t talk and assumed he would lash out in physical violence when upset.

The class began and Remus worked hard on his potion, Slughorn occasionally hovered and guided Remus, but for the most part Remus completed the assignment on his own. He was so proud of his Polyjuice potion and knew it was perfect.

“Alright class, stopper your potions and let me have a look.” Slughorn announced and Remus set about doing just that. When he had placed his at the front of his table like everyone else's, Slughorn looked up at the class, nodded, and then grinned. “Excellent idea!” he boomed which caused Remus to jump. He didn’t hear what was said and was now confused. He looked up and slightly around to try to figure out what had happened. “We will test the potions with a partner. Each of you will pair up and test your partners brew but with the hairs of your partner. Should make for an interesting lunch period.” Slughorn laughed as if he had just said the funniest thing he could imagine.

Remus thought otherwise and froze, dread seeping into him. He didn’t want to test his potion with these students. If it had been with Lily or Mary he would, but not with this group. He swallowed hard and clenched his hands on his trousers as he heard the class start to pair up.

“Sucks for whoever has to partner with Loony Lupin,” Sirius said with a smug tone.

“Actually, Mr. Black, since both of you get the highest marks in my class I would like you both to pair up for this assignment,” Slughorn said offhandedly.

Sirius gaped and sputtered but Slughorn waved off his arguments and Remus was soon faced with one Sirius Black standing over him.

“Let’s get this over with Loony.” He said in an acidic tone.

Remus didn’t make any attempt to move and Sirius scoffed before reaching out and yanking some of Remus’ hairs from his head. Remus cried out and his hand flew to the spot Sirius had pulled from. Sirius snorted and rolled his eyes and then pulled a single stand of his own head. He opened his vial and then Remus’ and inserted the hairs into it. The potion bubbled for a moment and then settled. Sirius picked up his vial and shoved it into Remus’ hand. “I won't have a poor grade because you refuse to work. So open up and drink it on your own or I'll force it down your throat.”

Remus took the vial and swallowed before tipping it back and swallowing the mouthful of liquid. Sirius picked up Remus’ vial and did the same.

Remus gagged and almost vomited but kept it down. All at once, the lights dimmed and the sounds stopped. The colours were less vibrant and his clothes weren’t too tight and itchy. His skin didn’t feel like ants crawled over it. He was glad that Sirius was a similar size as him or else he would have to change clothes with the mean kid. He looked up and saw his own face and the wide eyes staring back at him. Remus sighed. Part of him wanted to give Sirius a taste of his own medicine but he knew that was wrong. He was a bigger and better person than Sirius and he knew Sirius would experience that enough in the next hour as Remus and Remus didn’t need to make it worse. So Remus packed up his materials, cleaned up his potions stuff, and left the classroom. He would spend the lunch hour in the library as he usually did.

Sirius told himself it would be fine, but when he swallowed the potion he swore he was going to hurl. The rolling feeling in his stomach didn’t end when the potion transformed him into Remus and he stood staring at himself. Instead it changed to a dull ache in the pit of his stomach. Sirius noticed Remus started to pack up and returned to his table to do the same, shouldering his back and strutting out of the classroom towards the Great Hall like he always did.

Sirius hadn’t been prepared for the sensory hell that was lunch. The lights from the candles, the windows, and the artificial sun in the ceiling beamed light so bright Sirius’ eyes watered and he turned his head this way and that to try to avoid it. No matter which way he turned it was in his eyes, blinding him. The metal utensils on the glass dishes made the most high pitch noise and the sounds of everyone chewing was obscene. He could hear the lips smacking and the wet noise of peoples mouths. He looked down the table at someone and gagged at the sight of the food rolling around in their open mouth as they chewed. Sirius made himself a plate of all his favourites. The first bite of the fruit was too sour, the next too sweet, and the third bitter. Why? It was fruit, it was supposed to have the same taste each time! So Sirius ate some pasta, but the noodles were slimy and seemed soggy. He groaned and ate some mashed potatoes and crackers, because those seemed safe. He was rewarded with the same taste and texture each time and sighed in relief.

“What the hell are you doing here stupid?” James asked, smacking Sirius in the back of the head.

Sirius looked up glaring and pushed James away from him. He tried to yell at James, but the words caught in his throat. He tried again and again but James just stared at him and then started to laugh before making exaggerated grunting noises and crossing his eyes.

“Potter!” Lily Evans screeched from across the Great Hall, “you leave him alone right now!”

“He started it, he hit me!” James yelled back, pointing an accusing finger at Sirius.

Sirius made a protest, to explain that James was who started it, when again nothing came out. He stared at James in horror and then turned to Lily who was storming down the aisle and pushed James away.

“Go away Potter. Go find Black or something. Leave Remus alone.”

Sirius was never so grateful to see his best friend leave than at that moment. He felt the tears prickle in his eyes and swiped at them.

Lily sat down and gently pet Sirius’ hand and asked where his headphones were. Sirius couldn't reply, just finished eating his potatoes and slipped from the Great Hall. Sirius would try to avoid the other students until the potion wore off, wandering the corridors. Sirius should have never assumed he could do that. The castle was full of students on an hour-long lunch break. They were everywhere. Between the blinding lights, the too bright colours, all the voices talking and laughing, there were subtle things that were starting to get to sirius. Everyone wore too much body spray, especially when he passed the locker rooms. The smell hit Sirius like a massive wave causing Sirius to cough and choke. The sound of the creaking and groaning of the stairs moving and the high pitch whine of the portraits and doors opening and closing made Sirius’ teeth hurt. But the worst thing was the way everyone either stared at him, made faces or the hand motion he did earlier that day, or the few that outright tried to trip him.

When he rounded a corner and came face to face with James and Peter. He tried to turn around but was too slow. Peter grinned and tripped him, James laughed and clapped Peter on the back and they both strode over to him before James spelled him upside down by his ankle. He flailed and struggled against the hold, but his screams fell silent. He screamed and cried and tried to escape to no avail.

He hadn’t realised he had wandered outside the library until he saw himself standing in the doorway staring back at him from behind his two best friends.

He pleaded with his eyes for help and Remus crossed his arms over his chest in defiance before his wand appeared and was pointed at Sirius. Sirius knew at that moment that this was Remus’ revenge. This was how Remus showed Sirius what an absolute prick he had been. He deflated, resigned to whatever jinxes or curses Remus would throw at him. No one was more surprised than Sirius was when Remus spoke in his voice softly the counter jinx, lowering Sirius to the ground carefully before putting up a shield around him to keep him safe from James and Peter's spells.

The two boys looked over at Remus with surprise and then parted, thinking that Sirius just wanted a part of the action. The looks of confusion took hold when Remus carefully placed his headphones over Sirius’ ears and offered Sirius a small tentative smile and held up his two hands.

“I'm sorry that happened to you. Are you okay?” He asked, holding up each hand with an option. Sirius stared at him in disbelief before he swallowed and motioned to “yes”.

“Okay. Do you want to go into the library or to your dorm?” Remus asked him and Sirius pointed to the library.

“Okay.” Remus said and rose, glaring at James and Peter who backed up a few steps as Remus guided Sirius into the library.

“Do you want me to stay or go?” Remus asked, holding his hands out again. “Stay,” Sirius replied, tapping Remus’ hand.

“Can I clean the cut on your forehead?” Remus asked softly, motioning to the gash Sirius hadn’t even been aware was there. Sirius nodded.

Remus worked gently, explaining each step of what he was about to do and how it would feel. He knew what Sirius would experience and tried his best to prepare Sirius for the smell and the burn of the Ditany.

“The potion will wear off any moment now. Thank you for trusting my potion. I may be different, autistic, but I’m not retarded. That word is highly offensive to me and others with intellectual disabilities. Don’t use it again.”

Sirius nodded as he watched his features melt off of Remus and the tingling and burning in his skin and hair slowly morphed him back into himself. He sat staring at Remus perplexed before Remus slowly pulled the headphones from Sirius’ head and placed them over his own ears before nodding and leaving Sirius alone in the library.

Sirius would never use that word again.

[autistpride]

Autism Acceptance

Prompt day 7: Performer AU

Word count: 2500

@wolfstarmicrofic

Remus was so excited he couldn’t stand it. He bounced on the balls of his feet and his fists shook up and down. 

“I’d say he likes the gift,” Regulus said to Remus' mum with a laugh.

Remus could see them watching him to make sure he stayed safe as he made his way around the room. He was practically vibrating and he squealed.  

“What did you expect? You just waltz in here and announce that you got Remus a way to meet his favourite people and didn’t think he would happy stim?”

“I knew my brother and his friends were his favourite but I didn’t think he would like it that much,” Regulus shot back with a laugh before his hand shot out as if he could stop Remus from across the room. Both Hope and Regulus gasped.

Remus ran into the table and then the doorway but his squealing and movement didn’t slow.

“He’ll feel that when the excitement wears off,” Hope said with a sigh and Regulus nodded.

Regulus left the Lupin home at the end of the day. Regulus had never realised when he became a personal assistant for the Lupin family, that he would meet someone who would become his friend. Remus was not that much taller than him and he used his communication device for speaking, although he did often express himself with facial expressions and the perfect noise to express his sarcastic attitude. Remus was the master of eye rolls, eyebrow raises, smirks, snorts, and scoffs as well as the ba-dum-tsh and wa wa wa noises. 

Remus’ room was decorated in bright colours and his bed had a tent over it. He needed help with many life skills still, but none of that stopped them from becoming like two peas in a pod. Technically it was frowned upon for Regulus to have developed an attachment to a patient, but Hope and Lyall had confided in him that Remus had come out of his shell and made so much more progress with Regulus as his aid than he had with anyone else.

Remus also had a cutting dark sense of humour. The number of jokes about body bags and comments on eyes honestly bordered on concern to anyone who didn’t understand the way Remus thought. That alone was enough. But then Regulus found out that Remus loved music. And not just any music, a very obscure  small group of people who sang children's songs but in different genres. Hope apologised many times when Remus kept humming the songs while swinging in his hammock chair and yelling in frustration when the older disc would skip or scratch but wouldn’t allow anyone to help him. He listened in his headphones to the same cd anytime he was overwhelmed or tired and so he was often never without the discman. One day when Remus was busy playing in the little pool set up out in the back garden, Regulus opened the old discman and was surprised to see his brother’s face smiling up at him.  

Regulus’ relationship with Sirius was strained after all the things they went through growing up, but when he went home that day, he immediately called Sirius up and asked Sirius to meet him and to work through everything. They went to therapy together and over the months things had improved and while they would always have some hard feelings, they were friends again. So when Remus’ birthday came around that year, Regulus didn’t hesitate to ask Sirius if his friend Remus could meet Sirius. Sirius was confused why Regulus had a friend who liked his music, especially one made for children. After Regulus explained that Remus was autistic, Sirius readily agreed. He even asked what things were sensory triggers for Remus and made a list. He sent Regulus to the Lupin residence that day with the good news and ensured Regulus that he would take care of everything.

The days leading up to Remus’ birthday were long and yet too short for Remus. He was so excited the days seemed to drag on, but with every day that ended Remus would ask Regulus how many more days left. Pressing the buttons for “See friends today?” as a greeting. Regulus would laugh and make some sort of comment about how Regulus “could see where he ranked” or “I see how it is, not even a Hi Reggie.” That always made Remus laugh and he would say hello and then ask again. So Regulus helped him make a small calendar and everyday they would add a sticker to it to help count down the days. 

The night before, Remus swung in his hammock and listened to his discman. Anytime Regulus looked at him, Remus would push a button on his AAC that said, “I’m so excited!” Regulus watched while working on the paperwork for the week and would always respond, “I know. I know. Tomorrow Remus.” 

Remus went to sleep as soon as Regulus left at seven, saying that the faster he went to sleep the faster that it would be the day he met his friends. Then it was tomorrow and Regulus was knocking on the door. Remus opened it and his face dropped and he quickly pressed on his AAC, “its you.” he just held up for Regulus to read. Regulus snorted, “Hi Reggie. Morning.” Remus didn’t laugh this time and he frowned and held up his device again. “Yes, it's just me for now. It’s seven in the morning Remus, they will be here at ten. Okay?” Remus pouted but nodded and immediately went to his timer. Regulus took off his shoes and shut the door before crossing the room making sure Remus put three hours into the timer and set it back onto the shelf to count down.

When the timer went off three hours later Remus threw open the door. Regulus was across the room and dashed to Remus. Remus knew it was because Regulus was worried Remus was going to run into the road, but Remus wouldn't. Remus knew it was to ensure he didn’t leave without someone but it still was annoying that they didn’t trust him. Remus peered out the door to the empty front garden. It was ten. He set a timer. Remus glanced at his AAC. It was actually after ten now! 

“I know you’re excited Remus, but they will knock when they get here,” Regulus said softly when he took in Remus’ dejected expression. Remus nodded disappointed and right before Remus closed the door a small blue Volkswagen parked on the curb. Remus gasped and quickly looked at Regulus who grinned, “Ya thats them.” 

Remus clasped his device to his chest and shook while swaying on his feet and then froze, dropping his AAC when Sirius stepped from the car. This was why Regulus had insisted Remus keep the silicone case around it, even if Remus gnawed on it sometimes. 

Remus held his hand out to Regulus so they could go out the door. Regulus knelt down and picked up the device and took Remus’ hand. Remus squealed and pulled Regulus over the grass to the vehicle and stopped right in front of Sirius. Remus stared at Sirius, unblinking before turning to Regulus and snatching his device from Regulus and quickly finding the buttons he wanted before holding it up to Regulus. 

Regulus read it, looked at Sirius, and burst out laughing, “yes they would be perfect in it.” Remus smirked.

“What?” Sirius asked, confused.

“Do you want to tell him or should I?” Regulus asked.

Remus didn’t wait, he pressed play on his communication device and a slightly robotic male voice read out, “I want to add your eyes to my collection.” 

Regulus couldn’t help laughing at the expression of confusion and slight worry on Sirius’ face followed by James’ as he had stepped out of the driver’s side while all of this was going on.

Remus narrowed his eyes at Regulus who stopped. “Okay okay I’ll get them.”

Sirius’ expression was one of visible panic and Regulus held his phone to Sirius’ face and took a close up picture of Sirius’ eye and then showed it to Remus. “This one good?” He asked and Remus nodded, mouthing the word wow over and over.

Remus knew people thought his fascination with eyes was odd. Many people had said so, thinking that just because he used an AAC device and needed help with everyday tasks, that he was stupid. They talked about him in front of him like he wasn’t there or able to understand the things they were saying. All his past personal assistants had and Remus had decided that if they were going to treat him like that he would just be like that. That’s all they thought he would be, so he stopped trying to show them otherwise. They had treated him like a burden. 

That was until Regulus came along and he took the time to listen to Remus, to understand.

Remus carried Regulus’ phone into the lounge, staring at the picture. Sirius and James looked at each other and Regulus snorted. 

“If you guys want to set up in the lounge, that would be great.” Regulus motioned to the fairly small but tidy lounge. 

Sirius gave Regulus a small hug and then carried his guitar in. James carried an electric drum kit and his sticks. It wasn't the best, but worked in a pinch, and he could turn the sound down so it wouldn’t be as loud. Mary and Lily brought in the keyboard. Regulus took up the rear and closed the door behind them all. 

They all arranged themselves in one area of the lounge. Hope tried to stay out of the way but brought out an extension cord with a power strip for them when they needed to get everything plugged in and they couldn’t all use the one outlet. 

Regulus took his phone back from Remus with the assurance he would print the picture out for Remus so Remus sat in his hammock watching everyone setup and get ready. Regulus held out his headphones and Remus put them on as Mary counted them down and began. 

Remus rocked in his hammock as he listened. After a few songs Lily sang a soft version of happy birthday as Lyall carried out slices of cake for everyone. Remus ate his cake while everyone chatted. He wasn’t often included in group conversations because there were so many people and they talked quickly, not leaving room or time for Remus to use his AAC. 

But Sirius wouldn’t have it. He asked Remus questions or for his thoughts on the topic and waited for Remus to respond.

When the cake was finished, Remus slowly edged his way over to Sirius and gently ran his fingers over the guitar. Remus had watched the way Sirius played. He had this look about it, the same look that Remus felt when he listened to their songs or talked about eyes or cold cases.

“Would you like to try?” Sirius asked next to Remus suddenly and Remus froze as if he was going to be yelled at.

Sirius lifted the guitar off the stand and motioned for Remus to come closer. Remus stayed where he was watching Sirius ready the instrument again. Sirius slowly reached out, giving Remus time to pull away, before gently taking Remus’ hand and placing them on the strings. Remus looked at Sirius and Sirius smiled encouragingly and Remus plucked a string. It vibrated and the sound that it created made Remus so excited he squealed and his hands clenched into fists and shook. 

They continued like this for sometime before Mary and Lily started to pack up. Sirius had James take his guitar out to the vehicle. Sirius then asked Regulus if he could stay longer and Regulus told him to ask Remus. So Sirius did and a shocked Remus nodded happily.

Sirius sat talking to Remus the whole rest of the time Regulus was on his shift. Regulus sat nearby watching while filling out the paperwork he had to do for the week. 

Sirius asked Remus questions. What song did he like best? Did he have a favourite show? What about movies? What other things Remus was interested in. And he answered his own questions back for Remus to know the answers to.

He didn’t shame or judge Remus and when he found out about Remus’ fascination with eyes he asked what about them was so interesting. And Remus told him. 

Remus liked the way the colours in the eyes melted together. He liked how the pupil changes shapes depending on the lighting. But mostly, Remus liked how the eyes held so much depth and emotion. How you could almost see someone's soul when looking at them. 

Sirius stared at Remus like he had just said the most profound things and then begged Remus to let him write that down for him, that it was the most beautiful poetry Sirius had heard. Remus flushed with pride.

When seven pm rolled around, the clock sounded and Regulus started to pack up and put on his shoes when Remus darted to his room. Regulus watched from the lounge, making sure Remus went to his room and not out the door to the back garden and when the door slammed closed and Regulus sighed. 

Sirius looked shocked and concerned, “Hey what happened?”

“He likely got upset you’re leaving. Don’t worry. I’ll talk to him.”

Remus laid on his bed with the door to his tent closed and the blanket over his head. Remus heard the knock and ignored it. Sirius opened it and poked his head in. “Hey. I’m going to come in and just sit here okay. Regulus is in the lounge if you want me to get him.”

Remus bit his nails and picked the skin on his lips before eventually unzipping the tent. Remus looked out at Sirius who was sitting on the floor with his legs crossed and Remus’ AAC in his hands. Sirius looked up from his phone and smiled. “Hey, it's okay to be upset, especially when meeting new people and when having a lot of new experiences going on. And because the fun day is over.”

Remus scoffed and rolled his eyes. He knew it was okay, it didn't mean it didn’t suck that the best day of his life was ending and he would never see his new friend again. 

Sirius laughed and held his phone up to Remus’ face, causing Remus to flinch. Sirius took a quick photo and then turned it to show Remus. “I think your eyes are stunning too.” 

Remus smiled. Sirius pressed a few buttons on the AAC before holding it out to Remus. Remus played it, “see friend Sirius tomorrow?” 

Remus beamed and nodded enthusiastically. 

“I'll see you tomorrow Remus,” Sirius said brightly and waved goodbye before leaving the room and the house.

Remus couldn’t wait for tomorrow.