Hi everyone — I'm Eric, and I just wanted to say a quick hello!

EricFrancis

I'm new here and just finding my way around, but really grateful to have found this space. I was born with a disability and spent a lot of my younger life just trying to blend in — always hiding it, never really talking about it. I’ve always felt like there were others out there who might feel the same — who weren’t ready to shout about it, but still carried the weight of it quietly.

Recently, I finished writing a coming-of-age memoir (under the name Eric Francis) about those early years — growing up, navigating school, friendships, crushes, bullying, and all the messy, funny, painful stuff that comes with trying to feel "normal" when you’ve always felt different.

It’s called The Edges of the Playground — and it’s not just about disability, it’s about being on the edges of everything — of friendship groups, of confidence, of young love. But the disability thread runs quietly through it all.

If that sounds like it might resonate with anyone, I’d love to chat. And if not, I’m just glad to be here.

Thanks for having me!

— Eric

Holly_Scope

Hi @EricFrancis and welcome to the community. It's great to have you with us 😊

Mary_Scope

A warm welcome from me @EricFrancis 😄 How are you doing today?