Foreword. Preface. Introduction -- Setting The Scene 1. How Did I Get Here? 2. Diagnosis 3. Relationship Mk I -- Who Is This Weirdo/Crazy Woman? 4. The End of the Beginning -- Splitting Up 5. Relationship Mk II -- Not so Weird/Crazy After All 6. Practicalities 7. Speaking Asperger as a Second Language. 8. The World According to Keith. 9. Change, Certainty and Cantankerousness. 10. Communication. 11. Pay-offs, Sad Days and Thoughts. 12. Conclusion. References. Resources
Summary
Seeking to challenge the bad press that people with Asperger Syndrome (AS) get as partners, Sarah and Keith tell their story of how they are making it work - and also how they got it wrong - with disarming frankness and humour. When Sarah and Keith met in 2003 neither knew much about Asperger Syndrome. Sarah thought Keith was 'weird' and couldn't work out why; and Keith thought Sarah was obsessed with diagnosing him with something-or-other. Difficulties ensued that brought the relationship to an end. Slowly, however, they each built up their knowledge of AS and in the meantime developed a mutual understanding, mutual acceptance and a desire to be together again. This personal account is supplemented with professional knowledge and anecdotes gained from Sarah's work with adults with AS - a career which started as a result of her experiences with Keith. She swears that she didn't take her work home with her! It is inspiring reading for couples in Asperger relationships as well as for counselling professionals
