Blog

By Bryan Ellicott-Cook

Much of my identity is visible and has been for quite some time now. For example, I have been very open and proud of how my family’s dedication to the military and first responder service fuels my passion for SAGEVets. I live each day as a transmasculine non-binary bisexual individual, and I am married to a wonderful man. However, there is a significant part of my life that has not been as easy to see — my experience with neurodivergence as a high-functioning person with autism and sensory processing disorder.  

In high school, I learned to mask my neurodivergent traits to fit in and be successful. Being a high-functioning person with autism and sensory processing disorder means that while I can often navigate daily tasks and social interactions effectively, I still experience challenges that others may not notice. For instance, I may excel in structured environments and have a strong attention to detail, but I can also become overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or chaotic situations. To manage this, I often create structured environments for myself, ensuring that I leave room for unexpected issues that may arise.  

Additionally, I may need extra time to process information or prefer clear, direct communication to avoid misunderstandings. These sensory sensitivities and processing differences can impact my comfort and efficiency in various settings. This was a survival strategy in a world that often does not understand or accommodate neurodiversity. But as we celebrate Disability Pride Month, I feel ready to peel back that mask and share this integral part of who I am. 

 

Living with neurodivergence has presented its challenges, but it has also shaped many of my personal strengths. My unique perspective allows me to think creatively, which brings creativity and innovation to every project I undertake. I am highly detail-oriented and often notice nuances that others might overlook. This attention to detail has been a significant asset in my work at SAGE as I ensure we provide the best possible support to our LGBTQ+ elders. 

My neurodivergence also fuels my empathy and understanding. Having navigated a world that is not always accommodating, I am deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and respected. This empathy drives my advocacy work and efforts to build a more inclusive community at SAGE. Additionally, I have honed my organizing and time management skills to a fine art. Balancing various responsibilities requires meticulous planning and an ability to prioritize effectively. These skills have been instrumental in my role at SAGE, particularly in organizing events and managing complex projects. 

Disability Pride Month is a time to honor all aspects of our identities and to advocate for understanding and acceptance. I am proud of the work I do at SAGE and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive world. I encourage you to remain open and take the time to learn about folks across the disability community. To those reading who can relate to my journey, let’s embrace who we are and celebrate our unique contributions! 

Bryan Ellicott-Cook is the Director of Government Relations at SAGE.