EPOH....

When I was diagnosed with Dyslexia, my world change, quite literally. I was 34 years of age and enrolled in a doctoral program at Florida State University. Initially, the University improperly diagnosed me, so I assured myself that their diagnosis was wrong (I was right, and so was a staff member who helped me through the process). I sought advice from an expert in learning disabilities, who not only properly diagnosed me, but whom supported me in my path to becoming a certified Dyslexic. The road here was long, tortuous, and angering. Looking back, I wonder how my life would have changed had I been properly diagnosed when I was in primary school. I wondered how my decisions would have changed. I wondered if my failure at getting into the State Department would have turned into a successful career as a diplomat. I wondered why Florida State University denied me the accommodations necessary to complete my doctoral degree. I wondered a lot when I was diagnosed with Dyslexia. Post diagnoses, I seemed to have found my footing, at least more than I had previously. I have been empowered, finding strength and assertiveness in my reinvented self. Now, I want to help others find their power and strength in identifying the challenges in their lives--my HOPE is to transform the lives of people, helping them through the struggles we all face. HOPE is sometimes the only thing we have to hold on to...it's the only thing I had at many stages of my life before I turned 34.