My Sibling Story

My name is Grace, and I’m eighteen years old. I founded Exceptional Siblings when I was fourteen, inspired by my older sister, Ashlyn, who is twenty-three and has autism. From a young age, I realized I was more developmentally mature than Ashlyn and that I would eventually take on a caregiving role for her. Balancing my own childhood, managing chronic illness, and helping care for Ashlyn forced me to grow up faster than my peers.

Growing up with a sibling who was barely verbal and needed extra care was challenging. I often felt isolated because no one really understood my family dynamic. That’s why I created Exceptional Siblings—to provide a space for families and siblings of special needs individuals, a space I felt was missing.

My goal has always been to offer outreach and support. I've succeeded if just one person finds comfort or understanding through my platform. Exceptional Siblings is dedicated to sharing the struggles, joys, and untold stories of being a sibling to someone with special needs. I hope it becomes not only an outlet for myself but also for others who share similar experiences.​