Jo Redman, World Championship Kickboxer, wasn’t diagnosed with Asperger’s until she was an adult. Because Jo grew up unaware of the diagnosis and didn’t know why she felt so different, it was difficult for her. It was not easy for her to forge friendships and she felt isolated. She was even bullied and called mean names, and being on the spectrum meant it was harder for her to brush off the criticisms.

When she was officially diagnosed, it opened up a new world for her. Her mindset changed. “It was like a flash of light to say, ‘Nothing’s actually wrong with you. You just are a little different,’”

I have been training with the BCKA in kickboxing since I was 13 and in that time have achieved my second degree black belt and won the WKC World Championships in 2011, 2012 & 2013. I was also Northamptonshire Sport's Disabled Sports Achiever of the Year 2012 & 2013 and received a Martial Arts Illustrated Hall of Fame award in 2013.

Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome as an adult. I am hoping to show through my sport and achievements that people with Asperger's can be successful given the right support and opportunity. I aim to be a positive role model for those with Asperger's and became a patron for charity Anna Kennedy Online.





http://blog.theautismsite.com/jo-redman-world-championship-kickboxer/#8KCpd46PkTsXMyul.99
http://www.joredman.com/

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