Introduction: Imagine hearing the words, “You have cancer.” Now imagine hearing those words while navigating fluorescent lights, competing conversations, unfamiliar routines, rushed appointments, endless paperwork, changing healthcare providers, and the invisible expectation that you will somehow know how to navigate a complex medical system. Imagine trying to communicate your fears while exhausted, advocate for your needs when your energy is limited, or make life-altering de

Introduction In more recent memory, a disturbing link has been shown to exist between applied behavioral analysis (ABA) and conversion therapy. Iar Lovaas and George Rekers, hugely influential proponents of both programmatic approaches to the human condition, have proposed that anything "abnormal" must be made "normal". Such people needing to be "fixed" include those with autism, intellectual disabilities, and members of the LGBTQI community. Over time, this "mission" h

Introduction This essay is intended to explore my history of learning disabilities, relational growth, and discovery and...