"I pride myself on being visually minded." - Sabine

I’m Sabine, I’m 34 years old and happily married to my husband since 2017. We live together and have a dog. I volunteer at a daycare center for children, which is located in a wooded area with animals, and I'm having a great time. I am a friendly, cheerful woman who is compassionate and kind to people and animals. I am creative and ambitious.

I was 5 years old when I was diagnosed with PDD-NOS (ASD). My parents told me when I was 8 years old. I’m bothered by a full head very quickly. Too much information and stimuli make me tired and sensitive very fast, and my emotions become extra intense. I want to do everything the best I can, more than just 100% percent, for others as well, which makes me forget about myself. I find it very difficult to receive criticism, it can carry it with me for a long time and feel awful about it.

I pride myself on being visually minded, I’m able to see the smallest details and I have a good memory. I also work very precisely and accurately, which makes me very creative. I do all kinds of arts and crafts, like knitting, crocheting, working with a sewing machine and drawing. My perseverance has helped me achieve my goals which first seemed impossible. And I succeeded. I have a sweet husband who loves me very much, I have a nice job and a driver's license. It’s a fact that I need support, but I have personally chosen what I want in my life and I am happy with this.

My tip to people with autism is: I am open and honest about my autism with people who are familiar to me. For example, with my family, friends and at my workplace. People understand me better this way and I feel more space to just be myself.