There are mountains at the top of every mountain. The ADHD climb is never ending and steady challenge. The rules; still and be quiet. Pay attention and listen. Engage in activities that do not interest you and power through. Do not react but stay engaged. The most difficult seems to be not to take it personally; stop being so sensitive.

These are the unwritten rules of our education system that fail to listen to the needs of students. I think someone finally heard me; it only took what seemed like forever. I started this blog out of frustration because I kept getting shut down. I would present abstracts from the voice of a person with ADHD, and nobody wanted to listen. Everyone wants research-based abstracts.  I get it, but the lived experience is so important.

ADHD affects self-esteem and a person’s overall sense of self.  The lingering self-doubt is residual of the academic system that excludes us from belonging.  The education system takes a blanket approach to teaching that places everyone in the same box. A conformist approach to teaching with only one teaching method in their arsenal.  How can they believe there is only the only way to teach students? We all have different abilities, but our education system ignores differences and suffocates the creativity of those with different abilities, like those with ADHD. 

I learn differently, and this difference motivates me to push for change. My life experience is the fuel to my fire that pushes for change. My fixated hyperfocus finally paid off.  I have submitted research-based abstracts, which have been accepted for conferences. Previously, abstracts or op-eds from the lived experience of those with ADHD were rejected for not being research-based. Until now…. I am at a loss for words which is rare.  Acceptance to speak at this conference holds a different meaning because it is not only from the voice of my lived experience but also from a positive stance.

The Ontario Center for Exceptional Children recognizes and advocates for changes to the education system that tries to silence differences in abilities by ignoring them.  This is the organization whose conference is giving me a voice.  Exceptional children are incredible, they deserve a voice, and I am so excited to be a part of sharing this voice. Thank you for the voice; I promise to do my best with this opportunity.