Neurodiverse Sibling Dynamic Duo Inspires Inclusion

Alexandra was five when her little brother, Andrew (A.J. for Andrew James) was born. He has Down syndrome and autism. Alexandra became professional caregiver for individuals with disabilities, and now helps Andrew, taking him to his day programs, helping him learn skills in the community and at home. For years, Alexandra volunteered for her brother’s music therapy group, singing songs for some great young adults with disabilities. When COVID-19 stopped them from attending, she started recording a series of cosplay YouTube covers to share. Working with him led her to examine her own reactions to things and she learned she also was on the autism spectrum, and that apparently many people do not get such a diagnosis until adulthood. It explained so much.

Always an excellent student, English was her best subject. Her brilliant and hilarious favorite high school English teacher dubbed her the “Platypus Princess” for her Patti the Platypus Beanie Baby she brought to school for some reason one day. She kept is as her moniker for her YouTube channel.

Then, a head injury in college set her back academically. Still, she persevered, and wrote a thesis paper about disability representation in the horror film genre. She volunteered through the office of disability to help other students, serving as a note-taker and tutor for students who needed support because of their disabilities. It was the beginning of her personal journey of looking at her own struggles through a different lens. All the while, she kept playing music and learning instruments.

The COVID-19 pandemic gave her a chance to reflect on her own struggles, and she discovered she was on the autistic spectrum, too. Born two months premature, Alexandra had always had sensory issues, but her intelligence and wit helped her thrive through school years. Far from disappointing, her autism diagnosis just reinforced that her ability to write and make connections is actually a gift. It made her more determined to fight ableist attitudes that held her brother back all his life.