Beautiful Not Broken

Beautiful Not Broken

"Timeswept"

(Digital Art)

"Ocean Girl"

(Digital Art)

"Piano Girl"

(Digital Art)

Untitled

(Digital Art)

I am 18 years old and have been an Autism advocate for three years now. At the age of four, I was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome. When I was nine, I suffered a neurological injury called withdrawal dyskinesia. It was caused because I was removed too quickly from my medication. It caused me to shake uncontrollably for two years, 24/7. I couldn't eat, drink, dress myself, write, or walk without assistance. I also lost 35 IQ points, because it was much like a traumatic brain injury (TBI). I was able to find treatment and recover about the time I turned 13. When I was 15, I entered a local Spoken Word competition. I qualified for Nationals and started speaking at various places to practice for the national competition, where I finished 5th. During that time, I discovered I loved being an Autism advocate. I have spoken in front of thousands of people, sharing messages of self-love and loving others. I currently run a page on Facebook called Beautiful Not Broken, which continues to share that message of love and acceptance. When I am not writing or speaking, I am immersed in my creation of music and art, as well as taking photos. I #LivetoTell so that I can help people like me to see their great worth.
Anastasia Phelps
Artist

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