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Kaitlyn Ford '25
Danielle Maresca is a sophomore at MHS. She takes many advanced AP classes, and is a dedicated individual. However, what many people do not know is she was diagnosed with Autism when she was in kindergarten.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is defined as a condition of variable severity with lifelong effects that can be recognized from early childhood. Chiefly characterized by difficulties with social interaction and by restricted or repetitive patterns of thought and behavior.
Danielle said, “My diagnosis is Autism. But I’m a select one. Meaning there are ones that are not social or not intelligent. I’m not social, but I’m intelligent.”
Since Autism is a spectrum disorder, it is different for each person with the diagnosis. Yet, there are some commonalities within the experience - which is true for anyone anyway.
Growing up, everyone is trying to find themselves and who they are. It can be difficult finding ways to “fit in” when there are things that make a person stand out. In Danielle’s case, Autism.
“I realized I was different from others around middle school. I knew I had ADHD but my mom had never told me I had Autism. My Autism isn’t the only thing though. I struggle with dyslexia as well,” said Danielle.
Autism is a diagnosis that could majorly affect a developing child and it can potentially go unnoticed or un-diagnosed.
“Though my mom did not tell me until later, it did not bother me. She was my biggest support," said Danielle.
At times, children with Autism have more hurdles to go through in order to reach their fullest potential.
“I did not have many friends growing up. But the select few I did, were super close with me. My siblings were amazing and I love them so much,” said Danielle.
Danielle with her family playing badmitten in their backyard that is setup throughout most of the late spring and summer months.
Struggles are not only during early childhood though because social settings are abundant in high school and can pose challenges that Danielle has to work through.
"If I do not know anyone in a classroom, I will struggle socially and end up being very quiet," said Danielle.
Danielle holds herself to high standards though and finds creative way to deal with some of her anxieties.
"And be sure to find emotional support, such as family or friends, it could even be objects. I bring a stuffed animal to get me through the day if I need help," shared Danielle.
For people with Autism, social setting can be difficult, but there are also day-to-day encounters that can pose a bigger challenge that from an outsiders perspective would seem minor.
“For me, there are certain things I don’t like. Such as metal on the teeth, and certain textures. A huge thing is being overstimulated," said Danielle.
First getting diagnosed with autism may be extremely scary. It’s a whole new worldview point with different obstacles than other people.
“The advice I would give to someone who has been recently diagnosed with the same/a similar condition is to understand your limitations. When people find out I’m autistic they do not believe me much. When I told my boyfriend he did not believe me," shared Danielle.
Autism does not define anyone as a person, everyone decides who they are. No matter the hurdles to over come.
"It is just something I have. I have lived with it and it definitely is not the end of the world. You just have to work around things," said Danielle.
Click here to read more stories by Kaitlyn!
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