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My life-changing autism diagnosis

Growing up Sara Gibbs and Morénike Giwa Onaiwu were called names and snubbed. They tell Kim Chakanetsa that being diagnosed as autistic in their 30s came as a welcome relief.

As a woman with autism you're likely to receive a diagnosis much later in life than if you are a man with the condition. Why is that and what impact does a late diagnosis have? Kim Chakanetsa is joined by two autistic women who are speaking up about their experience of the condition and seeking to help others.

Morénike Giwa Onaiwu is part of the Autism Women's Network in US. She says many of her early symptoms of autism were dismissed or ignored because she is Black and explains how autism can amplify stereotypes around Black women.

Sara Gibbs is a British comedy writer and autistic. Labelled as a cry baby, scaredy cat and spoiled brat – she finally got a diagnosis in her thirties. She has written a book, Drama Queen, about trying to fit into a world that has often tried to reject her, and says that being on the spectrum doesn't have to be a barrier to a happy life full of love, laughter and success.

Produced by Jane Thurlow

IMAGE DETAILS
Morénike Giwa Onaiwu
Sara Gibbs [credit Juliet McKee]

Available now

27 minutes

Last on

Sat 19 Jun 2021 07:32GMT

Broadcasts

  • Mon 14 Jun 2021 03:32GMT
  • Mon 14 Jun 2021 04:32GMT
  • Mon 14 Jun 2021 10:32GMT
  • Mon 14 Jun 2021 21:32GMT
  • Mon 14 Jun 2021 22:32GMT
  • Sat 19 Jun 2021 07:32GMT

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