Wendy Lawson

Wendy Lawson has an Autism Spectrum Disorder. However, Wendy has graduated, over time, from being a child considered to be intellectually disabled and 'almost incapable of doing as she is told' (as one school report stated) to a mum of four children with five university degrees. She now operates her own business.

As well as running training programs for those wanting to understand autism better, Wendy is a poet and a writer who possesses a real passion for words. "It was when I came to understand that 'words' could explain the world better that my love for them increased. With each and every word I have a corresponding picture. As these pictures form links within the chain of life so my experience becomes more 'real'.

"I want to share my autistic understanding with others. This may then help them to understand what being autistic is like and in doing so a bridge can be formed, running from my world to theirs. Making the journey into their world is never easy. Although I have achieved a great deal in the past few years, I still need to rely on a network of people around me to support me at home in Warrnambool, Australia. Especially my family, including my partner Beatrice without whom I would not be able to do the work that I do."

Once there was a time when Wendy felt isolated and without hope. Living with a mis-diagnosis of Schizophrenia for over twenty-five years, her sense of 'self' was non-existent. Now, Wendy has found both herself and her space. A place of belonging, purpose and most importantly, a place of hope. Hope for the future. Enjoy the journey!