Hello Lucia, it’s quite late here in London, and the sun seems to be a rare sight these days. I know we get more sunshine here compared to other parts of England. How are you finding London? It’s good to be back, although I do miss the sunny days in Barcelona. The food in Barcelona is better, but London has its own charm. I’ve noticed your personal project gaining traction on social media. You always like to go the extra mile, and it’s great to see it taking shape. I’m looking forward to catching up with you.
Let’s delve into something more personal – something that went unnoticed for most of your life until four years ago. It was around that time that I underwent a test and discovered that I have autism. It wasn’t a complete surprise as I had a feeling about it all along. I remember being treated differently when I was younger due to my behavior. The diagnosis also revealed ADHD, which is common among neurodiverse individuals. These conditions often interconnect closely.
The traits of autism and ADHD manifest in me in various ways. My mind is always racing, making it hard for me to sleep. I have so much energy that I struggle to calm down. One significant impact is that I tend to think several steps ahead, not allowing others the chance to catch up. My hyperfocus on football is evident – some may call it passion, but for me, it’s more of an obsession, a hallmark of my autism. People often notice me fidgeting with my hair, a subconscious way of calming myself.
Have you ever felt the need to mask your true self to fit in? Absolutely. In my twenties, I imitated others’ behaviors to blend in.
Initially, I found it challenging to engage with people, but over time, I learned to adapt. Hugging and making eye contact were particularly uncomfortable for me, but I worked on them to conform to societal norms.Some of your teammates are aware of your conditions. When I shared my diagnosis with close friends and family, they were understanding and accepting. I didn’t feel the need to disclose it widely since those who mattered accepted me as I am.While medication is available for ADHD, I have chosen not to pursue it. I believe my unique traits have contributed to my success in football. Exercise, in particular, has been instrumental in helping me focus and excel in my sport. At 33, I still have boundless energy, which I consider my superpower.
Your journey to self-acceptance is truly inspiring. Over the past few years, you have become more comfortable in your own skin. This newfound confidence has empowered you to share your story openly and advocate for greater understanding of neurodiversity. Your upcoming role as an ambassador for the National Autistic Society demonstrates your commitment to raising awareness and eliminating stigma surrounding autism.
Thank you for being a beacon of inspiration both on and off the pitch. Your courage in sharing your experiences will undoubtedly resonate with many and make a positive impact.
