Demons to Champions

Gary always knew he thought differently, seeing things others didn't. Labelled the "weird kid who never knew when to shut up". His mind a deluge of thoughts and ideas. The gift and curse of a neurodivergent mind. Taming this maverick would be a lifelong adventure and become the foundation for this memoir of a late-identified neurodivergent.

Late in life Gary identified as neurodivergent, an intriguing blend of autistic and ADHD, one of several in his extended family. He's surely felt disadvantaged at times, but never hampered by disability.

Despite being a successful academic, business owner, and inventor, self-doubt always plagued him. He pushed on regardless, an outsider, searching for the secret of belonging, happiness and success. A misfit square peg in society's eternal round hole.

In his twenties, anxiety and depression drove him to the brink of suicide. He worked harder. Burned out. Rinse and repeat! Spinning plates. Pleasing people. Creative but at what cost?

Gary was saved by years of reflection, mindfulness, kayaking, living by his core values, and the unconditional love of his wife and family. He learned to distract his internal Demons, never allowing them to regain the toxic power they once had over him. Today they're his Champions.

This is a book for the world's misfits, neurodivergents - autistic, ADHD etc. It offers a vulnerable and compassionate reflection of our true selves. A heartfelt invitation to fall in love with our unique minds. Gary's story is a testament to the resilience and strength of embracing his neurodivergent true self. At sixty-seven he's found his purpose, is the master of his destiny and is the happiest he's ever been.