You Just Don't Understand!!!

by Pearl Gannon
(Lombard, IL)

I've had symptoms of SPD since I was around eight years old... and here I am, now 21. I can only imagine what I have put my parents through, especially my mom, with all of the problems I have given her. But, nevertheless, I know there have been some funny moments!

I wasn't diagnosed with SPD until last year, so it's been a long haul. I recently looked out for help, and have found weight blankets incredibly helpful. It doesn't help that I have a physical disability also. I wouldn't wear jeans until I was twelve years old!!!

Last year I remember driving in the car with my cousin, who is only two years younger than me. The sound of jingling keys has ALWAYS been a problem with me, and so I was put into certain training to deal with sounds such as that. We were driving to lunch one day and all of a sudden she screams out, "WILL YOU SHUT YOUR KEYS UP?!?" I just sat there driving and laughed. I said, "Emily, you don't understand, do you? This is my T-H-E-R-A-P-Y!!!" She wasn't too happy with me after that when I wouldn't hold them still!!!