Anything, but Ordinary

Research shows that genetics play a major part in autism, but there is no single “autism gene.” Instead, hundreds of different genetic variations can interact to increase the likelihood of an autism diagnosis. Autism is not caused by parenting style or emotional upbringing. Many children with autism are born to parents with no history of the condition in their families. Research shows that genetics play a major role in autism. Studies of twins and families estimate that auti

Chris Friesen was a young man who had a bright future in sports. He grew up in Langley, British Columbia with an older brother, Max. The last person that Chris talked to was Max. Growing up, Chris played sports and when he got older, he chose lacrosse, a sport that he excelled at. He had played both field and box lacrosse, played on numerous teams and played in countless tournaments. Chris was starting to look into universities and colleges and was excited about his options a

There is no evidence that vaccines cause autism. There are some side effects when getting a vaccine, like mild fever or soreness, but vaccines don’t cause or have a child develop autism. Parents choose not to vaccinate their children due to overlapping concerns about safety, distrust in pharmaceutical companies and healthcare systems, and a desire for "natural immunity." Autism is understood to be a neurodevelopmental condition influenced largely by genetics and early brain

Twin telepathy is considered to be a myth with no scientific evidence that it exists. Twins who grew up closer will be able to share similar experiences since they were raised in similar environments. They also are able to pick up on expressions and body language and learn each other’s habits due to always being around each other and being so close with each other. Personalities of twins can also be similar to the point where they share the same thought or finish each other’s

Anissa Jones was just 18 years old when she died from a drug overdose in 1976. The actress was best known as Buffy in the 1960s TV show, Family Affair, but after the show ended in 1971, she had a hard time adjusting even when she was auditioning for other roles, her character she was known for seemed to follow her around. Whenever people addressed her as Buffy, she politely told them to call her Anissa. She auditioned for the role of Reagan in The Exorcist, but the director c

Stimming, short for "self-stimulatory behavior" or stereotypic movement, refers to repetitive physical movements, sounds, or behaviors—such as hand flapping, rocking, or spinning—common in individuals with autism. These behaviors serve as essential coping mechanisms for regulating emotions, managing sensory input (avoiding overload or seeking stimulation), reducing anxiety, and aiding focus. People with autism stim to help them self-regulate. It can be anything from rocking

Kevin Brooks was involved in a drunk driving accident that paralyzed him from the chest down and killed his childhood best friend, Brendan. During the early days of his stay in the hospital, Kevin’s parents didn’t tell him about Brendan’s death in fear that it would cause Kevin to want to give up. Eventually over time, Kevin learned about Brendan. Not only did he have to live with the fact that he killed his best friend, but for knowing that he’s never going to be able to wa

How do you know if you're having an anxiety attack or a panic attack? A panic attack comes on suddenly and it involves fear that often occurs without warning. You can start feeling heart palpitations or dizziness, while anxiety attacks typically build gradually over time, often triggered by a specific stressor or worry about future events. Anxiety attacks build over time. They can last for hours, maybe even days. Symptoms are worry, distress, tension, irritability, fatigue,

When someone with autism masks, they are trying to blend in with people who are neurotypical. They want to be accepted and not be looked at differently. They want to fit in as much as they can. During this time, someone would start to pick up social cues from people around them. They do what they can to make sure their autism isn’t known to whoever they are around. It can eventually lead to anxiety because they are trying to be someone they are not. In a lot of situations, t

Philip Seymour Hoffman was considered to be one of the most talented actors in the film and TV industry. He appeared in films like Boogie Nights, Twister, Patch Adams and Along Came Polly. Philip had a talent, both in film and theatre. No matter the genre of film or type of play, he was able to do it all. In early 2014, Philip had moved into an apartment in Greenwich Village, New York. He had recently separated from his partner, Mimi O’Donnell and wanted to deal with his add