Stories from the Spectrum: Molly Bradford
Meet Molly Bradford, autistic woman and Strictly Come Dancing super fan!
Last February, Molly was lucky enough to see the Strictly Come Dancing Live relaxed performance. Amy Dowden and AJ Pritchard were among the dancing stars who graced the stage that evening. Molly talked to us about being swept up in the Strictly magic, as well as the adjustments the show made to create an autism-friendly environment for its audience.
We also chatted to Molly about her autism diagnosis, the current lockdown, and how family, friends and members of the public can support autistic people during these uncertain times.
When were you diagnosed as autistic?
I was diagnosed when I was 16. At the time, my parents were worried about my behaviour. As a young child I had Selective Mutism and had always found it difficult to communicate with others (and still do). I withdrew to my room and I stopped going out.
My parents took me to CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and I was eventually diagnosed with autism. I think the reason I was diagnosed so late was because I masked my autistic behaviour a lot – especially outside the house (like in school) and then I let it all out when I was at home. That’s where I’m most safe.
What is being autistic like for you?
Being autistic is difficult for me as I really struggle to communicate with people. Communication isn’t something you are taught, yet you are expected to just know all the rules. I was very badly bullied all my life (secondary school was the worst), because I communicated differently from my peers. Eye contact is also hard. I find it really uncomfortable, perhaps because I lack confidence. I just don’t feel brave enough looking people in the eyes (even people I’m very close to). Being in large crowds of people is also difficult for me. I struggle to understand spoken communication, I much prefer things to be written down or in picture form.
Sensory issues are also a big problem for me. I find they get worse as I get older. Taste, texture and sound are the worst. Loud noises and bright lights are very scary for me. These sensory issues cause a few problems because I can't take medication or eat new or different foods. If it doesn't look right, I won't touch it. For example, if a chicken nugget is a different shape or if there is a dash of potato waffle on my other food, I won't eat it. I also won't wear anything tight. Socks, for instance, are a big problem! Who invented those?
I'm extra sensitive to pain and temperature. Like many people on the spectrum I have very high levels of anxiety. This has been the case since school, and I find my anxiety is generally worse at night.
I also take longer to process things than other people and I am often misunderstood. Even though I am 22-years-old I have the mind and feelings of a younger person. The hardest part of autism is the lack of understanding. All we want is to be accepted for who we are.
