In Third Person
Eve's early years were marked by a quiet, reserved nature, speaking mainly to those she trusted, like her mother and grandmother.
At around four, she had limited speech, often repeating what she heard, a behaviour known as echolalia. This was especially noticeable in her adoption of American accents from YouTube videos.
Over time, she gradually began engaging more with others, even greeting unfamiliar adults with a simple “hello.” Eve is drawn to people with visible disabilities, often offering a friendly high five with phrases like "high 5 man in wheelchair."
Eve has always had a strong connection to music, picking up melodies and lyrics quickly, with Kate Bush being a favorite due to her expressive facial movements. She is fascinated by people's facial expressions, particularly emotions like happiness or surprise.
Solitude has always been important to Eve. She enjoys spending time alone, watching YouTube clips, or scrolling through photos and messages at high speed. She often stims during these moments, using objects like a rubber snake or curtain tieback to soothe herself. Eve's stimming, which includes flapping, jumping, and standing on one leg, helps her regulate sensory experiences, allowing her to engage with the world in her own way.
Repetitive behaviours are common in autism, offering a sense of predictability and comfort. For Eve, this manifests in a unique routine, kicking a tennis ball up and down her hallway for long stretches of time, sometimes for an hour or more. The repetitive motion and rhythmic sound of the ball bouncing off the walls provide her with a calming, almost meditative experience. It is an activity that centres her, giving her a sense of control in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Despite her preference for solitude, there is one place where Eve enjoys spending time outside of her home: the Shiremoor Adventure Playground Trust. This community based park promotes outdoor activities for children, offering a space where she can engage with nature on her own terms. She particularly loves a secluded swing tucked away from the more crowded areas. The sensation of swinging back and forth, the gentle push of air against her face, and the rhythmic motion bring her immense comfort. It is in these moments that Eve appears the most at peace, absorbed in the simple pleasure of movement.
Eve was once terrified of dogs. From a young age, their barking and unpredictable movements scared her, making her anxious whenever one came too close. Wanting to help Eve overcome this fear, her mum decided to introduce two Labradoodles into their home, Angus and Amber.
At first, Eve was hesitant, keeping her distance and watching them carefully. But over time, she grew to love them. Their soft, curly fur and gentle nature reassured her, and now, they are her constant companions. At night, Angus and Amber sleep on her bed, their presence providing her with comfort and security. They have become more than just pets, they are her trusted friends, always there when she needs them.
Eve’s world is a unique one, filled with routines, special interests, and deep connections to the things and animals she loves. While she may experience life differently from others, her perspective is rich and meaningful in its own way. Whether she is swinging at the park, kicking her tennis ball, or snuggled up with Angus and Amber,
Eve’s life is shaped by her autism, but it is also rich with unique joys, personal expressions, and meaningful routines. She experiences the world in a way that is deeply her own, through the rhythmic bounce of a tennis ball, the gentle back-and-forth of a swing, and the reassuring presence of two dogs. In these moments, Eve finds her happiness, her rhythm, and her place in the world
