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Challenges of Eating on the Autism Spectrum
Autistic limited diet- Autistic people on the spectrum can experience increased sensitivity to light, touch, sound, and taste. This increased sensitivity can influence the variety of foods that they eat. Dietary considerations associated with Autism include, eating a limited diet- a small number of foods similar in colour and taste. Foods that are predictable may be preferred, for example one Big Mac looks, smells and tastes the same as any other Big Mac (or should do) therefore it is safe and predictable. Bananas on the other hand, differ in shape, colour and, taste and are unpredictable.
Sounds Familiar?
This sums me to a T. I’ve always had a problem with my weight, the problem being, that I have too much of it. I couldn’t understand why I had a set of rules around food. Growing up my world would implode if I couldn’t sit in a certain seat, facing a certain way. Parents, teachers and dinner ladies just couldn’t understand why I would choose to go without food if I couldn’t sit in a certain seat. I got told off a lot, this started my unhealthy relationship with food and eating. I was always told that I was cutting my nose off to spite my face. I’m autistic and the poetry of language sometimes eludes me. I didn’t understand that saying, I wasn’t cutting my nose off, I was refusing to put food in my mouth, I don’t eat with my nose!
I suppose one thing that made it worse in primary school, was that my mother worked as a dinner lady (it was a small school, about 75 pupils) and when I used to get home from school in the afternoon, she would tell me that I had embarrassed her in front of everyone. I just couldn’t verbalise why I had to sit where I wanted to sit. Even now I have my very own seat at home, that no-one else uses when I’m around. If, on the exceedingly rare occasion we’re eating out, my family lets me pick where we’re sitting, it’s safer for me that way.
Knife and Fork, Spoon Please!
Cutlery is another sticking point. When I buy new cutlery, I must hold and rub every spoon in the shop. You see it’s the spoons that can make or break a mealtime. The spoon must be the right shape, size and feel. After I have bought the cutlery it’s that cutlery all the time. I have several different sets at home, but I only use certain ones. Spoons are my go-to for eating, they feel nicer than a fork. So, I cut my meals into bit sized pieces and then eat with a spoon.
Drinks have a certain quirk Aswell, I use what I call Sippy cups, drinking beakers with a lid and a straw. There is method in my madness, if there is a lid nothing can get in my drink (dust, bugs etc). that maybe an OCD thing, but I only drink through a straw. I don’t like people using the same cups as me, so I have my very own special ones.
When I go out, I pack my own cutlery and straws just in case, but I always have my own Sippy cup full of juice with me. Honestly, it’s like packing a bag for a toddler.
The times of meals are also structured, breakfast when I wake up, lunch at midday and evening meal between 4pm and 5pm. I panic if those times deviate in any way. If I haven’t eaten my evening meal by half past 5, I don’t eat. It’s too late, it’s out of rhyme and rhythm. That is probably cutting my nose off to spite my face.
Milk.
Like I said earlier, I have always struggled with my weight. As a baby I had an illness which required me to take steroids for a while. These medications ballooned me up to look like the Michelin man’s child. Ever since then I have been, let’s call it bonny. It’s only within the last few years I have been able to stomach breakfast, literally I would always be sick after eating in a morning. I got bored of this day in, day out, so I cut out the middleman and didn’t eat. When I did eat breakfast, it was always toast. I don’t drink milk so cereal just wasn’t a choice for me. I was a fussy eater growing up and even now.
What is for Lunch?
Certain foods can’t touch, things must be eaten in a certain order and 9 times out of 10, they are eaten out of a bowl. I struggle with lunch; I can’t get past the sandwich way. Other foods don’t seem to fit in with the lunch time vibe, I’ve tried bigger meals like salads and pasta, but it all seems a bit too much for lunch. So, I stick with a sandwich, as I’m writing this, I have some lovely home boiled ham in the fridge just calling out for a bread roll and apple sauce. Nothing fancy.
Just call me Nigella.
Evening meals can be stressful, and I normally start to stim about it. I get overwhelmed. I have an arsenal of tried and tested recipes in my head, and I normally stick to those, remember, safe. I can put together meat and 2 veg no problem, but if I have to start a new recipe it is so daunting. I like to cook from scratch, not processed, I like to know what is in my food, OCD again. I have to meal plan and buy all the ingredients for the following week, I can’t just open the fridge and say well I’ll throw that and that together, I just can’t react quickly. Me and spontaneity just don’t go together.
Longest Pregnancy Ever.
I have food cravings, think being pregnant for the last 40 years. Some days it’s mustard some days it’s beetroot, never at the same time, which would be just weird! These cravings can last for months, at one period of my mustard phase I was eating ham and mustard sandwiches for lunch and evening meal every day for 4 months, then all of a sudden during a sandwich, I said nope, I don’t want that anymore and moved onto the next craving.
I fall out with food a lot. When I am in-between cravings, I am lost, I don’t want to eat, it doesn’t interest me and I get bored. I lose my comfort and safe place. Eating the same thing all the time isn’t healthy and can border on infatuation, not to mention expensive. Its ok if I’m craving food that is cheap to buy but when it is something expensive the price adds up over the week, I’m not craving caviar just yet.
Mush, Yuck!, Give me the Chunk.
Texture of food is another big problem, I can’t eat a bowl of mush, mashed potatoes are a no-no, and soup must be chunky. Meat that has fast still on it makes me shiver inside. I like crispy chewy things that don’t look anaemic. Meat must be well done, no red stuff coming from it, I can feel Gordon Ramsey rolling his eyes, but no, just no.
To sum up, food is a big problem for me, and I don’t see any way of solving that problem. I’ll just continue with the quirks, you can find me at the designated mealtime, in the same seat, with the same cutlery with my bowl and with my crispy food.
Kayleigh x
Just Pootling Along
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A Magical Evening with A Christmas Carol in Sheffield
The weather was miserable, very apt and in the spirit with Ebenezer scrooge himself. The beautifully ornate Upper Chapel in Sheffield was the setting for the annual reading of A Christmas Carol. Charles Dickens beloved Christmas tale about a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas. His redemption by visits from the ghost of Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet to come has become a defining tale of the Christmas holiday. The story published in London in 1843 sees the protagonist transformed into a kinder gentler man. A Christmas Carol has never been out of print and has been translated into several languages, the story has been adapted many times for film, opera, and other media.
The Upper Chapel.
The Upper Chapel in Sheffield, is a Utarian meeting place. The Chapel is a Grade II listed building and was founded in 1660 by the vicar of Sheffield, The Reverend James Fisher. After walking through the portico, you are faced with the beautiful vestibule with a tablet on the wall depicts the history of the Chapel. Through the double wooden doors, the serenity overwhelms you, the smell of the wooden pews and the silence leaves you feeling relaxed and peaceful. People are milling about and offering refreshments of hot drinks and mince pies. While everyone seats themselves and the lights go dim. The Dickens Fellowship (Sheffield Branch) introduces the evening, Patrick Smith will present the reading. The fairy lights are twinkling around the Chapel and around the Pulpit. A lone Christmas tree stands by the alter. Patrick strikes a match and lights a candle, signaling the start of the evening.
Marley was Dead.
And so it began, Patrick said the opening words… Marley was dead. Patrick’s tone and pace, and pause were perfect throughout, waiting for the appropriate placed giggling from the 100+ audience. During the first half of the monologue, I found myself transfixed, drawn into the story, the atmosphere, the sounds. As if I was the only one in the room. Scrooge met the spirit of Jacob Marley who warned him of the upcoming visit of the three spirits and as the clock strikes midnight the ghost of Christmas past and without any explanation he is whisked away on a journey through Scrooges earlier life. Scrooge is transported back in time reliving his past and reflecting on his mistakes and regrets. Patrick stops and gently blows out the candle; the lights are switched back on. I am brought out of my Dickens trance, and everyone mingles through to the refreshments. Tea, coffee, and mince pies served by friendly members of the Chapel and The Dickens Fellowship. There is an option to donate to the Homeless & Rootless at Christmas (HARC) charity, a seasonal charity that opens its doors each Christmas to provide a safe, warm day shelter for homeless, rootless, and vulnerable people in Sheffield. Over the festive period they offer hot meals, warm clothing, friendly company, and essential wellbeing services- during what can be the coldest and loneliest time of the year.
The Remaining Spirits Make an Entrance.
Patrick reappears, the candle is re-lit, and the lights go low. Time for the second spirit, the ghost of Christmas present takes Scrooge to see the happiness and joy of those around him, including his nephew and his own employees. Everyone was hanging on the words of Patrick and the story of Tiny Tim. Finally, the spirit of Christmas yet to come appears to Scrooge and shows him the consequences of his actions and the bleak future that awaits him if he does not change his ways. Each ghost plays a critical role in Scrooges transformation, and their visits leave a lasting impact on him. The story of Scrooge serves as a reminder of the power of redemption and the importance of spreading love and kindness towards each other, especially during the holiday season.
Patrick blows the candle out for the last time and the audience breaks into a round of applause. Thank you from the fellowship and we all filter into the cold December air. The evening felt lighter after hearing a heart-warming, even romanticised story of Dickensian Christmas.
A magnificent, thought-provoking performance from Patrick and The Dickens Fellowship (Sheffield Branch), set in the atmospheric Upper Chapel. A wonderful evening for all ages in a grand setting.
Kayleigh Northall.
Just Pootling Along.
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Understanding AuDHD: My Journey of Masking
ADHD, asd, autism, AuDHD, biography, bright lights, Chesterfield, complex case, COPING, CRISIS, Derbyshire, ECHOLALIA, LATE DIAGNOSIS, loud noises, MASKING, mental health, neurodiversity, overstimulated, resilient, STIMS, WOMEN
Living with Autism: My Journey of Masking and Acceptance
I am a forty-something, female living in the U.K, married with a daughter, I own my own home, I have been to university. I have held down a job. People who know me say they know me. Yet, there is one thing about me that most people do not know.
This is hard for me. Not a lot of people know about my diagnosis. Some people reading this and who know me will be saying, “NO” she isn’t autistic. She doesn’t look autistic, but ……
MASKING.
I mask; I mask everything. I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD at a late age. It was before it became trendy with the tik Tokers of this world. I have masked since being a child. I was aware of this, but I can’t do anything about it. It is not something you can reverse easily.
I watched people and how they acted. I mirrored them. I watched what they would say in situations. I mirrored them. I thought what I saw on television was how people acted in real life, so I mirrored that.
I practiced conversations in my head before actually speaking. I have a library in my head for how to act and what to say. I was not being me; I did not know who I was, still don’t.
Some women put a mask of makeup on before they leave their bedroom. I had to put on an entirely different me. I was a bubbly, friendly, helpful, clever girl. I seemed to grow up with no social anxiety, or so my exterior would have you believe.
OVERWHELMING.
Inside I was exhausted, both physically and emotionally, scared and alone. Music was my friend. Everywhere I went, my headphones and Walkman went with me. Here I can retreat from all the thoughts I had. Rapid thoughts of trying to interpret the overwhelming world around me.
I have always had friendship groups around me. Yet, nothing has lasted throughout my entire lifetime. I have acquaintances—people I recognise with whom I can have those well-rehearsed conversations. I questioned why anyone would want to be friends with me. I didn’t even want to be friends with myself. I felt false and like a fraud, as someone on the outside looking in.
DIAGNOSIS.
When I was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, it is now known as AUDHD. I was asked how I felt about the diagnosis. I answered relieved. But, I have a head full of questions. Questions I am still trying to find the answer to, why was this not found before, when I was younger. If I had been diagnosed at a younger age would things of been different. Would life of been easier.
I was diagnosed at a late age. At the time, I was in a committed relationship and had a fantastic job. I also had a teenage daughter. I had a nervous breakdown. I experienced audio and visual hallucinations. I imagined a tall bald man who wore a long purple coat living in my house. He followed me around and even spoke to me. The problem was that no-one else could see or hear him. This led me to the crisis team in my local area, I was pumped full of drugs and counselling. The drugs got rid of my bald friend. Yet, the diagnosis led to my discharge from the crisis team. It also caused my discharge from the mental health team. I went from having all the help I needed to nothing. Here is your diagnosis. Off you go into the world.
DAY BY DAY.
I am learning more and more each day about my disorder; I giggle at my ‘quirks.’ My husband and daughter tolerate me and my ways. I stim (repetition of words, sounds, and physical movements). I experience what I call ‘brain farts.’ During these moments, I don’t have a filter on what I say or when I say it. I have echolalia. I repeat tv and radio adverts and children’s tv programmes. My husband and daughter torment me. All they have to say is ‘who lives at the bottom of the garden.’ I must sing the theme tune to the poddington peas. Along with ‘oh look its Mr spoon,’ I must sing ‘we’re off to button moon.’ We’ve followed Mr spoon and button moon. Do not get me started on the magic roundabout.
I get over stimulated in situations where there are bright lights, certain smells, loud noise, or too many people. In these situations, I freeze or shut down. There is too much happening, and my brain just can’t compute it. My brain chooses to either fight, flight, or freeze.
ADAPTING.
Masking in autism is a complex and deeply ingrained behaviour. It has significantly affected my mental and emotional well-being. Despite facing challenges, I stay resilient. I have learned to adapt and navigate the world with these conditions. The journey of self-discovery and acceptance is ongoing. There are moments of humour and connection with loved ones. Yet, the struggle with overstimulation and social interactions remains. Understanding and support from my family and friends are crucial in helping myself with my autism and ADHD. Learning to manage my symptoms and leading a fulfilling life.
have you experienced anything similar, if so what are your hints, tips and tricks? how do you help yourself, have you managed to remove your mask completely? let me know your thoughts….
Just pootling along.
Kayleigh x
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Understanding the UK Prescription Postcode Lottery
Prescription Postcode Lottery in the U.K.
The prescription postcode lottery in the UK is a significant issue that affects many patients. It refers to the variation in the availability and quality of healthcare services depending on where a person lives. This disparity can lead to unequal access to medications and treatments, which can have serious consequences for patients.
One of the main reasons for this postcode lottery is the decentralisation of healthcare services. The National Health Service (NHS) is divided into various trusts and clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), each responsible for managing healthcare in their respective areas. This means that decisions about which medications and treatments are available can vary significantly from one region to another. For example, a patient in one area might have access to a particular medication, while a patient in another area might not.
Another factor contributing to the postcode lottery is funding. Different regions receive diverse levels of funding, which can impact the quality and availability of healthcare services. Areas with higher levels of deprivation may receive more funding, but this does not always translate into better services. In some cases, funding may be insufficient to meet the needs of the local population, leading to gaps in service provision.
The impact of the postcode lottery on patients can be profound. Those living in areas with limited access to medications and treatments may experience worse health outcomes compared to those in better-served areas. This can lead to increased health inequalities and a sense of injustice among patients who feel they are not receiving the same level of care as others.
Addressing the prescription postcode lottery requires a concerted effort from policymakers, healthcare providers, and the public. Greater transparency in decision-making processes, equitable funding distribution, and a commitment to reducing health inequalities are essential steps in ensuring that all patients have access to the medications and treatments they need, regardless of where they live.
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Stagecoach Introduces Electric Buses: Cleaner and Cost-Effective
National company provides £31 million investment for local community transport.
Stagecoach has recently introduced electric buses in Chesterfield, marking a significant step towards sustainable transportation in the region. These buses are not only environmentally friendly but also offer a quieter and smoother ride compared to traditional diesel buses. The transition to electric buses is part of Stagecoach’s broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting green energy solutions.
One of the key benefits of electric buses is their reduced impact on air quality. Diesel buses are known for their high emissions of pollutants, which contribute to poor air quality and health issues in urban areas. Electric buses, on the other hand, produce zero emissions, making them a much cleaner option for public transportation. This change is expected to have a positive effect on the health and well-being of Chesterfield residents.
Moreover, electric buses are more cost-effective in the long run. Although the initial investment in electric buses and charging infrastructure can be high, the operational costs are significantly lower. Electric buses require less maintenance and have lower fuel costs compared to diesel buses. This can lead to savings for the transportation company, which can be passed on to the passengers in the form of lower fares.
The introduction of electric buses also aligns with the global trend towards sustainable transportation. Many cities around the world are adopting electric buses as part of their efforts to combat climate change and reduce their carbon footprint. Chesterfield’s move to electric buses positions the town as a forward-thinking community that is committed to environmental sustainability.
Stagecoach’s electric buses in Chesterfield represent a positive development for the town. They offer numerous benefits, including improved air quality, cost savings, and alignment with global sustainability trends. As more people become aware of these advantages, it is likely that the adoption of electric buses will continue to grow, paving the way for a greener future.
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Les Misérables 2024: Sheffield Arena’s Captivating Experience
Les Misérables, Sheffield will Leave you singing for More.
The 2024 production of “Les Misérables” at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena was a spectacular event that left audiences in awe. Running from October 10 to October 13, 2024, this arena tour brought the iconic musical to life in a grand and unforgettable way.
The cast was exceptional, with standout performances from Alfie Boe as Jean Valjean and Michael Ball as Javert. Their powerful voices and emotional depth brought these complex characters to life, making the audience feel every moment of their struggle and redemption. Killian Donnelly and Bradley Jaden also delivered remarkable performances in their respective roles, adding to the show’s overall impact.
The production’s design was specifically created for arenas, accommodating large audiences and enhancing the visual experience. The set was impressive, with intricate details that transported the audience to revolutionary France. The use of lighting and special effects added to the drama and intensity of the story, making each scene more captivating than the last.
The musical numbers were a highlight of the show, with the cast delivering powerful renditions of classic songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?”. The orchestra’s performance was equally impressive, providing a rich and dynamic backdrop to the singers’ voices. The combination of live music and stunning visuals created an immersive experience.
Director James Powell’s vision for the show was evident in every aspect of the production. The emotional depth of the characters and the intensity of the story were beautifully portrayed, making this production of “Les Misérables” a truly memorable experience.
Overall, the 2024 production of “Les Misérables” at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena was a resounding success. It offered a perfect blend of powerful performances, stunning visuals, and emotional storytelling.
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Little Shop of Horrors Review: Comedy Meets Horror
Little Shop of Horrors, a Perfect Blend of Comedy, Music, and Horror.
The 2024 production of “Little Shop of Horrors” at Sheffield Theatres was a delightful treat for theatregoers. Directed by Amy Hodge, the show ran from December 7, 2024, to January 18, 2025, at the Crucible Theatre. This killer rock musical, featuring songs like “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Suddenly Seymour,” and “Skid Row (Downtown),” captivated audiences with its quirky charm and dark humour.
The cast was stellar, with standout performances from Sam Buttery as The Plant (Audrey II), Georgina Onuorah as Audrey, and Colin Ryan as Seymour. Their chemistry and comedic timing brought the characters to life, making the audience root for them despite the bizarre and sinister plot. Michael Matus, playing Mr. Mushnik, added a touch of veteran expertise to the ensemble, having previously performed in Sheffield Theatres productions.
The set design was impressive, transforming the stage into a vibrant and eerie flower shop that perfectly matched the show’s tone. The plant, Audrey II, was a visual marvel, growing larger and more menacing with each scene. The puppetry and special effects used to bring Audrey II to life, were top-notch, adding to the show’s overall spectacle.
Amy Hodge’s direction ensured that the pacing was tight, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The musical numbers were energetic and well-choreographed, with the ensemble cast delivering strong vocal performances, despite it being a small cast. The show’s humour, combined with its underlying themes of ambition and morality, made for a thought-provoking yet entertaining experience.
Overall, “Little Shop of Horrors” at Sheffield Theatres was a resounding success. It offered a perfect blend of comedy, horror, and musical excellence, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained.
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Exploring Staveley Hall: A Paranormal Investigation
Ghost hunting at Staveley Hall with MJL Paranormal. Cr: MJL Paranormal.
By Kayleigh Northall.
MJL Paranormal is a dedicated team of ghost hunters who approach their investigations with a scientific point of view.
The group, primarily composed of family members, was formed out of a shared interest in the paranormal. Michael, James, and Lisa, along with Keith, have been enthusiastic about exploring haunted locations for over 20 years.
Their investigations are known for being fluid and adaptable, allowing them to cover different sites and gather comprehensive evidence.
MJL Paranormal’s approach sets them apart from other groups that tend to be more structured. They aim to uncover the truth behind paranormal activities by using various equipment and techniques. Their dedication to the field has led them to numerous haunted locations, including the infamous Staveley Hall.
MJL Paranormal continues to explore the unknown, leaving no stone unturned in their quest to understand the supernatural. The group continues to explore haunted locations in the Derbyshire area, inviting the public to have their own experiences.
Contact: https://mjlparanormal.co.uk/
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Urgent Need for ADHD Diagnosis Services in Derbyshire
The lack of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis services in Derbyshire has become a pressing issue, leaving many individuals and families struggling to find the support they need. Despite the increasing awareness of the disorder and its impact on people’s lives, the resources available in Derbyshire remain insufficient, leading to long waiting times and inadequate care.
The demand for ADHD services has surged in recent years, but the healthcare system has not kept pace with this growing need. As a result, individuals often have to wait months, or even years, to receive a diagnosis. This delay can have significant consequences, particularly for children and young adults, who may struggle with their education and social interactions without the appropriate support.
The shortage of specialist services in Derbyshire further exacerbates the problem. While there are some dedicated clinics and support groups, they are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of referrals. The ADHD Centre in Derbyshire, for example, offers comprehensive assessments and personalised treatment plans, but the high demand means that people are left waiting for extended periods.
The lack of timely intervention can lead to a deterioration in mental health and well-being, as individuals often experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. These mental health disorders can be treated individually with multiple medications, but the lack of a formal diagnosis leads to a lack of appropriate medication. Those individuals who are formally diagnosed, can access medication specifically designed to alleviate the symptoms of the disorder. This in-turn can mitigate the symptoms of anxiety and depression. They can also access further support from professionals who are specialised in this field, schools, councils, and therapy. Without the diagnosis of ADHD, these support systems are frustratingly just out of reach, leaving a feeling of being in limbo and unable to live their life to its full potential.
Parents and caregivers are also affected by the lack of diagnosis services in Derbyshire. Many parents report feeling frustrated and helpless as they navigate the complex and often confusing process of seeking a diagnosis for their child. The Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust provides some support through its specialist Nursing Ser vice, which collaborates closely with the Community Paediatrician Service to offer assessments and medication management. However, the limited availability of these services means that families are left without the help they desperately need.
The impact of the lack of ADHD diagnosis services in Derbyshire is not limited to children and young adults. Adults also face significant challenges in accessing the support they need. A numberless amount of adults go undiagnosed for years, struggling with symptoms that affect their work, relationships, and overall quality of life. The ADHD Centre in Derbyshire offers services for adults, including diagnostic assessments, medication management, and psychological therapies. However, the high demand for these services means that many adults are left waiting for help, often feeling isolated and misunderstood.
The lack of ADHD diagnosis services in Derbyshire is a critical issue that needs urgent attention. The long waiting times and shortage of specialist services are leaving individuals and families without the support they need to manage the challenges of the disorder. It is essential for healthcare providers and policymakers to address this gap in services, ensuring that everyone in Derbyshire has access to timely and effective diagnosis and treatment. By doing so, we can improve the lives of those affected and create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
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