Embracing NVLD — A Conversation with Anna Lee
In this chapter, I had the pleasure of speaking with Anna Lee, a fellow advocate in the neurodivergent community and a social ambassador with the NVLD Project. Our conversation was rich with shared experiences, personal reflections, and insights into what it means to live with Nonverbal Learning Disability (NVLD) and other learning differences.
Introduction: Meet Anna
Anna has been involved in NVLD advocacy since late fall or early winter of last year, but her passion for neurodivergence and learning disabilities stretches back much further.
“I've always felt called to advocate—not just for NVLD but for neurodivergence more broadly,” Anna explained. “My own journey started early. I was diagnosed with dyscalculia and dysgraphia in kindergarten.”
For Anna, dysgraphia primarily affected her handwriting and caused ongoing spelling and grammar challenges that continue today. For years, she wondered if dyslexia might be part of the puzzle, but further research revealed that many of the traits she questioned actually stemmed from dysgraphia.
Beyond those diagnoses, she received a general label of "specific learning disabilities"—a catch-all phrase that never felt quite right. “It always seemed like there was more to the story,” she said.
Discovering NVLD Later in Life
Despite graduating from college with a degree in journalism, Anna experienced inconsistent success in the workplace. “My job performance often depended on how I was trained rather than the work itself,” she recalled.
After losing a job during the recession, she decided to undergo comprehensive neuropsychological testing. At the age of 28, she was finally diagnosed with NVLD—a moment she describes as one of the most meaningful of her life.
“That diagnosis explained so much,” she said. “I finally understood why things had felt off for so long.”
My Own Diagnosis Journey
I resonated deeply with Anna’s story because I, too, had a delayed diagnosis. While I was first tested as a child, the results didn’t point clearly in one direction. It wasn’t until college—my first time in a traditional school setting after years of homeschooling—that I was able to receive the diagnosis of NVLD.
I remember the testing process well. There were dozens of assessments, and surprisingly, I found many of them fascinating. I even enjoyed parts of the experience—well, except for the timed math tests!
Living and Working with NLD
Outside of the podcast, I work full-time at a spiritual center where my mom is a minister and my dad is the facilities manager. I handle administrative tasks, social media, and even serve as the COVID janitor, sanitizing after Sunday services.
One thing I truly appreciate about working with my parents is that they understand my NVLD. It makes a huge difference when your support system gets it.
I also share Anna’s experiences with writing challenges—spelling errors, flipped letters, and difficulty translating thoughts into clear, written language. Before college, I struggled with essay writing until my mom stepped in to help me edit and organize my thoughts. It made a world of difference.
A Genetic Thread?
I asked Anna if she had any insight into the cause of her NVLD. Her neuropsychologist suggested a genetic component—though not necessarily a direct line from parent to child. Traits associated with ADHD, autism, or dyslexia among extended family members could all be part of the picture.
In my own family, I’ve wondered if the traits came from my dad’s side, especially since he's adopted and we don’t have much information about his biological background. Sometimes I catch myself noticing similarities in learning and communication styles between us.
Anna and I both admitted to quietly noticing these traits in others too—whether it’s family members, kids we’ve worked with, or even celebrities. Once you recognize the patterns, it becomes hard not to see them.
Accepting Ourselves
One of the most powerful themes in our conversation was self-acceptance. Anna spoke openly about how identifying as neurodivergent helped her embrace her whole self.
“I see my NVLD as the reason for both my strengths and my struggles,” she said. “I don't know who I would be without it. My perspective, my choices, my creativity—it’s all connected.”
That really resonated with me. Since starting this podcast in July of last year, I’ve grown so much in accepting myself, and connecting with others in the NVLD community has been a huge part of that growth.
Interestingly, Anna also started her own NVLD blog in July. We laughed at the coincidence—maybe there was something in the air that month encouraging both of us to use our voices.
Advocacy Through Honesty
We talked about how powerful honesty is in advocacy. Anna is transparent in her blog about the realities of living with NVLD and other learning challenges. She even includes a disclaimer explaining that spelling or grammar errors may be present in her posts—not because she didn’t try to catch them, but because this is part of her experience.
“I used to wait until I had a proofreader before I’d publish anything,” she said. “But then I realized that being honest about how NVLD affects my writing was part of the point.”
That resonated with me. I often include disclaimers in my podcast too—especially when I’m having a migraine or if a topic might be triggering for listeners. It’s a way of creating space for authenticity.
Gratitude and Growth
I told Anna how her openness made me feel more connected to her story. Even though our challenges don’t match exactly, I recognize the struggles and the strength it takes to keep moving forward.
We both agreed that advocating for others has helped us grow and better accept ourselves. “Helping others,” Anna said, “also helps you accept yourself in ways you didn’t even know you needed.”
Reflecting on Challenges and Wishes
When I asked Anna how she felt about living with NVLD and other learning differences, she acknowledged both the pride and the difficulty.
“I’ve always wanted to be a writer,” she said. “But my spelling and grammar issues get in the way sometimes. And I’d love to be more athletic or have the dexterity to play an instrument. Still, I wouldn’t trade the creative thinking or verbal strengths that come with NVLD.”
That complexity—loving parts of who we are while wishing other parts were easier—is something I think a lot of us can relate to.
Closing Thoughts
If you enjoyed this conversation with Anna, I encourage you to explore the rest of the podcast. You can also visit my website, livingwithnld.com, and follow me on Facebook and Instagram under the same name: Living with NLD.
Do you know someone with NVLD who might want to share their story? Or are there topics you’d like me to explore? Reach out to me at livingwithnld@gmail.com. I may not be an expert, but I live this experience every day—and I want to keep learning and sharing alongside you.
Take time this week to journal about your strengths and differences. And see if there’s a way to turn one of those challenges into something a little easier.
