“I view myself as a scientist first, and autistic second. I fight to not let autism take over my life. When smart 9 year olds walk up to me and they want to talk about their autism…why don’t you talk with me about astronomy, why don’t you tell me about computer programing, that you’re doing art. I’d much rather talk about your art than to talk about autism.” – Temple Grandin

I continue to be struck how metal health diagnostic labels can have such an impact one’s identity, as well as the family’s. While at times it can help paint part of a picture of one’s life, the concern is that the painting stops there, goes unfinished, while leaving a full color palette still waiting to be seen.