Traci Neal is a talented poet and author whose journey is both unique and inspiring.

Beginning in a humble way, she has grown into a well-known poet, with her work featured in the New York Times.

What makes Traci’s story truly special is how she uses her poetry to talk about autism and help others understand it better.

Traci Neal’s life has not always been easy.

Four years ago, she worked as a pre-K aide, or teacher assistant. She had no experience in media or public speaking, but she loved writing poetry. Traci started writing when she was just five years old. At that time, she did not know she had autism. She only knew that she loved creating beautiful poems.

As she got older, Traci became more interested in poetry. By the age of 13, she was diving deep into it, and by 14, she started performing her poems. Traci’s poems often touched on topics beyond her age and experience, showing a deep understanding of the world around her. This unique perspective was partly because of her autism, which gave her a different way of seeing things.

She had a late autism diagnosis, not finding out until she was 34 years old. Before her diagnosis, she often felt different from other people. She was often lonely and sad, facing bullying, especially from girls her own age. This bullying was so severe that Traci tried to take her own life when she was just 13. During these tough times, poetry became a way for her to express her feelings and find comfort.

When Traci was diagnosed with autism, it helped her understand why she always felt different.

In addition to autism, Traci found out that she also had ADHD, which made her very energetic and bubbly. Embracing these parts of herself, she began using her poetry to share her experiences with others. Her desire is to help people understand what it’s like to live with autism and thrive beyond the diagnosis.

Traci’s perspective changed significantly after being featured in the New York Times. Realizing that her poetry was not just about becoming famous, it was about being vulnerable and using her story to inspire others. Traci desires to help other people with autism see that they can achieve great things too.

Traci’s personal life also plays a big role in her story.

Married, she has a husband who is very supportive of her, helping her with technical things, like her website. Traci shared a funny story about how her husband offered to get her a bubble machine because she loves bubbles so much. Receiving this support has helped Traci focus on her poetry and her mission to raise awareness about autism.

Today, Traci Neal’s poetry is on a whole new level.

She writes about her experiences as a Black woman with autism and ADHD. Her poems have been published in various magazines, and she is working on getting into the world of commercials. Her goal is to use her poetry to help others and to give a voice to those who need it.

Traci Neal’s journey shows how poetry can be a powerful tool for expressing feelings and raising awareness about important issues like autism. She continues to inspire others with her words and her dedication to helping people understand autism better.

Such a great inspiration!

What I have learned…and what we all can learn from Traci and her journey:

Embracing Unique Perspectives:

Traci Neal’s poetry often touches on topics beyond her age and experience, influenced by her autism, which gives her a unique way of seeing the world.

I am so glad that she shared her story with me and inspired me to see the world in new ways.

Using Vulnerability to Inspire Because Support Systems Matter:

After being featured in the New York Times, Traci realized the power of being vulnerable and shifted her focus to providing inspiration to others with her story. She did not find success all on her own though, and her story inspires us to ask – and accept- help from those around us.

Providing significant support, her husband helped her with technical aspects of her work. He was a huge support, understanding her needs and encouraging her to pursue her poetry.

It’s important to find those who will walk alongside of you, sharing your joy and helping you succeed.

Raising Awareness through Creativity and Turning Pain into Art:

While Traci faced severe bullying and personal challenges, she was able to find solace and expression through her poetry. She uses her poetry to raise awareness about autism, helping others understand the condition better and support those who are neurodivergent.

We are not as alone as we feel sometimes. Many have gone before us, forging paths to success and beauty.

Learn more about Traci and her work by visiting her website, tracinealspeakerpoet.com.

With love, Dr Mary

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