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I'm proud to be autistic - Sheffield nurse shines light on Disability Pride month

Jayne Connolly, with light skin, pink streaks in her hair, defined eyebrows, and light lipstick, smiles gently at the camera. Her husband, with light skin, a gray goatee, dark sunglasses, and a black zip-up jacket, stands beside her. They are outdoors on a sandy beach.

Caption: Jayne Connolly and husband

Jayne Connolly, a dedicated Staff Nurse at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, is using Disability Pride Month this July to shine a light on her journey with autism. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) five years ago, just before her 47th birthday, Jayne's story is one of resilience and self-discovery. Growing up in the 70s and 80s, autism wasn't widely recognized, and Jayne was often seen as just the introverted, nerdy girl. It was only during perimenopause, when her symptoms became more pronounced, that she sought a diagnosis. With the support of the Sheffield Adult Autism and Neurodevelopmental Service (SAANS) and the hospital's Occupational Health team, Jayne was able to make essential adjustments to her work schedule, finding a balance that allowed her to thrive in her role.

Jayne's experience highlights the critical importance of support networks and workplace accommodations in empowering People with Disabilities. Her colleagues and the Occupational Health team have been instrumental in her success, allowing her to adjust her shifts to quieter night hours and providing access to support groups like Autism Plus and VIVUP, the Trust’s staff health and wellbeing service. These resources have been invaluable, helping her navigate the complexities of autism in a demanding healthcare environment. Jayne also found a sense of community and understanding through the Trust’s Disability and Wellbeing Staff Network Group (DAWN), where she connected with other neurodivergent individuals and shared her experiences.

In the spirit of Disability Pride Month, Jayne encourages others to embrace their neurodivergent identities and seek support. Her message is clear: being proud of who you are, including your autism, is vital. By sharing her story, Jayne hopes to inspire others to acknowledge their strengths and seek out the help they need. She believes that autism provides unique skills, such as attention to detail and problem-solving, which are often undervalued. Dive deeper into Jayne's inspiring journey and learn how support networks and understanding workplaces can remove barriers, fostering a more inclusive environment for all. Read the full article to discover how Jayne's experience can serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for others navigating similar paths.

Read the Full Article: I'm proud to be autistic - Sheffield nurse shines light on Disability Pride month

by Kate Heron

 

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