I slowly eased myself back into work after a few years.

I started by volunteering at a local community organization, helping elderly people.

From there, I also went to a company that specializes in hiring disabled people. I worked in 3 different companies, different types of jobs for a few hours/twice. Then, they reported on my abilities, and what they felt was best for me. It was interesting. I found that I enjoy working with the elderly. I feel more comfortable with them, than my peers or with children.

An Employment Specialist soon met with me and helped me apply for a variety of jobs, she also helped me prepare for interviews, etc. Within a few months, I got a job at a nursing home, as a feeding assistant. It went well for me.

Why I get along with elders so well is a bit confounding to me. Especially since I had such negative relationships with almost all of my elders as I was growing up. But, I helped care for 5/6 of them when they reached their 70's. We developed different relationships then.

I think it's that, as a person with disabilities of my own, I have a hard time relating to "normal" people. I don't share my experiences with the elderly, but I do understand where they're coming from. We sort of develop a bond ~ and that's special.

That's my personal experience. But, yeah, I still have PTSD as well. I'm just getting by, working PT and getting SSDI. That's the best that I can do... and that's okay.