A Late Diagnosis of Autism

I love any opportunity to chat with adults with autism who can share their insight on diagnosis, support, and living life with autism. Billy Mayfair is a top professional golfer in the United States, who found his diagnosis late in life in 2019. Today he shares his journey in early life and the concerns that led to his evaluation, and how those answers have helped him find the support he needed.

Growing up, golf was a safe haven, he found joy in being alone. Unlike those who receive an early diagnosis, because Autism was not on the radar, Bill did not have support in school. He found school to be very difficult and struggled all the way through. Billy’s high school counselor even told him not to try to go to college, that he needed to just go out and get a job and struggle for the rest of his life. This was a huge motivator for him, propelling him into completing college and into his golf career.?

Billy’s wife was instrumental in seeking a diagnosis. There was a pivotal moment during a golf tournament in which he was wrongly disqualified. When he did not comprehend what was happening and he wasn’t speaking up for himself, his wife’s concerns pushed him to an evaluation. Billy shares that even though he knew something was going on, he was reluctant to seek answers and even took weeks to actually read the findings report.?

One of Billy’s key struggles throughout his adult life has been with thought delay presenting as unpleasant facial expressions. Oftentimes, when he needed more time to think about something, he looked defiant and angry. He’s learned that it’s okay and even important to ask for more time to think or process. It’s really key to self advocacy.?

With this late in life diagnosis, Billy has adapted to new supports such as seeing a neuropsychologist and even a nutritionist who is helping him connect the dots between his diet and his brain.?

Billy and his wife are currently working on starting a foundation to support athletes with autism and their family members.