The Journey To University: An Asperger's Students Accomplishment

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So many critics see Autism as a label du jour, with some going as far as calling those diagnosed with the spectrum disorder horrific names. However, for the thousands of individuals and families who have accepted the challenge and overcome the obstacles presented with the diagnosis, a certain simplistic element emerges as a child grows into an adult and makes their way in the world.

For those with Asperger's, a higher functioning form of the Autism Spectrum, many go on to lead normal and productive lives, relatively speaking.

For Roger Diehl, that normalcy manifested itself once again when he headed off to the University of Wisconsin in Wyoming. What makes this even more astounding is that the Diehl family is from Tennessee.

Roger, 18, has been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD and clinical depression over the course of his childhood. While he is on appropriate treatments as explained in an NPR news report, he has experienced his own unique brand of challenges. And despite what some people who know little about the Autism Spectrum and quickly try to avoid labels, this young man used his experiences to get him into a university.

Roger did not try to hide his mental health problems when he applied for college. He wrote about his illness in his Merit Scholarship application.

"One of the greatest challenges I've overcome has been my autism," he wrote.

His teachers also mentioned his autism in their letters of recommendation. His applications were successful. He was a finalist for a National Merit Scholarship, and he was accepted at several colleges.

The depression and issues with social interaction can cause much stress for an uneducated parent but for Roger's mother, she seems to be dealing quite well. Since his depression puts him at risk for suicide and yet his age makes it clear that he is an adult and not legally in the right to be involved in his medical care, Sita Diehl has taken prudent steps to ensuring that her son's independence is respected and yet, that safeguards are in place.

As described in the NPR article:

Sita Diehl has already found a psychiatrist in Madison for Roger; Roger and his family have also consulted a lawyer. The lawyer recommended that Roger needed to give someone financial power of attorney over his affairs. Roger chose to give the power of attorney to his grandmother.

The lawyer also recommended that Roger appoint a power of attorney for both his mental health care and his health care, draft a living will and sign a HIPAA release.

So for a parent whose Autistic child is miles away from home and living the "normal" college life of independence and free choices, this family has to ensure that more than just dorm furniture, allowance money and clothing are taken care of.

Rodger signed the HIPPA release, which enables his parents to intervene medically if necessary. He is also working on an Advanced Directive with his grandmother who is also his power of attorney for financial dealings. Definitely a step outside of the box as most 18-year-olds in college are working on advancing into other areas of interest like the next frat party!

He and his mother, who runs the Tennessee chapter of the National Alliance On Mental Illness (NAMI) have even posted a Q & A for families looking for advice about prepping those with these types of challenges for college.

Still, the future biochemistry major believes that the added involvement actually contributes to his independence. He knows he is Autistic and he knows he has issues with depression and socialization.

He also knows that he is ready to take on the heavy academic workload that he will face in the years to come. And for those who are lucky enough to know an Asperger's child, then you are lucky enough to know that that workload is all in the mind.

Good luck, Roger! I'm sure we will see great things from this young man.