Biographical note

Anita Lesko is an internationally recognized autism advocate and member of Autism Society of America’s Panel of Autistic Advisors. She was recently diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at the age of fifty. She graduated from Columbia University in New York City with a master of science degree in Nurse Anesthesia in 1988, and has been working full-time ever since as an anesthetist, specializing in anesthesia for neurosurgery. Anita is honored to have been a speaker at the United Nations Headquarters for World Autism Awareness Day 2017. Her husband, Abraham, also has autism. They opened their wedding to the public to show that individuals with autism have a need for love, relationships, and marriage just like everyone else. The event attracted international media attention, including People and Good Morning America. She is a contributing author for numerous publications including the Autism Asperger’s Digest and The Mighty. She is a blogger for the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. Anita’s first book, Asperger’s Syndrome: When Life Hands You Lemons, Make Lemonade, a memoir, was written immediately after she was diagnosed. She co-authored her second book, Been There. Done That. Try This! The Aspie’s Guide to Life on Earth, with Dr. Tony Attwood and Craig Evans.