Hello:

hmmmm, I never know what to say by way of an intro ...

Well, for one ... no I'm not a black & tan Cocker Spaniel as the pic. shows ... that would be my service dog Bailey!

Me? Middle aged female from SW Ontario, Canada. I had the unfortunate experience of being injured at work ( as a Behavioural Specialist for a local school board ) while restraining a student I had been working with ... managed to damage 3 vertebrate in my neck (C4,C5 & C6) and now the ruptured discs are applying pressure to the spinal chord ... officially the dx is Cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy, which have resulted in a number of problems related to mobility and altered or lost sensation in the limbs. Then, also unfortunately the symptoms of the physical injury masked the onset of Myatonic Dystrophy Type 1 (adult onset) which has added to mobility issues as well and sealed the deal which took me from short term disability leave to permanent disability. I also am hearing impaired. hmmm to top it all off I'm also learning to cope with a number of mental health issues ... C/C PTSD, DID/Polyfragmented, and Major Depressive Dissorder ( anyone dealing with PTSD is probably also aware of a number of comorbid conditions that seem to accompany that dx ... like panic/anxiety, flashbacks, etc ) ...

Too much information??? Well, I've had an interesting life history. They tell me I tend to have an "unusual" sense of humour ( which doesn't bother me as it's my ability to find obscure little details and unusual ways to look at things that has actually kept me sane over the course of a lifetime ). I'm looking forward to getting to know the other members here, sharing some information and life experiences with you all, receiving and offering support and encouragement.

I have a degree in Music/Psychology ( original plans were to find a career in Music Therapy -- 2nd Degree is in Anthropology/Philosophy) ... approx 20 years experience working with individuals who have Autism Spectrum Disorders, Severe Communication & Behavioural Disorders and Sensory Integrative Disorders.

Well, think I've said enough ... looking forward to meeting you all ... hope everyone is safe and well and wishing everyone peace, comfort and resolutions to all the life issues that challenge you.