The human experience of neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental conditions often begins with subtle, misunderstood symptoms, resulting in delayed diagnoses and profound emotional tolls. This reality is exemplified in the stories of Staci Marklin and Carole McNally, whose experiences underscore the critical need for broader understanding and earlier recognition of atypical presentations.
World Health Organization – Dementia

Staci Marklin, a 47-year-old former nurse from Knoxville, Tennessee, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's last year when her son was just two. What began as mild forgetfulness and difficulty finding words was initially dismissed as “mum brain.” However, her escalating symptoms, combined with a family history of the disease, led her to seek further medical insights. Despite initially normal MRI and EEG results, further analyses revealed elevated biomarkers, and an amyloid PET scan confirmed the presence of dangerous amyloid plaques—placing her cognitive function in the lowest percentile for her age.
Alzheimer’s Society – Young-onset Alzheimer’s

Dementia, including Alzheimer’s, affects millions globally: around 944,000 in the UK and 7 million in the US. Alzheimer’s accounts for six in ten dementia cases, and notably, one in 13 patients is under 65. Typical symptoms extend beyond memory loss to include irritability, appetite changes, and, in younger adults, increased impulsivity.
Mayo Clinic – Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms

In a parallel journey, Carole McNally—now a 50-year-old tech entrepreneur—received an autism diagnosis at 46 after decades of being misunderstood. Throughout childhood, she was labeled cold, curt, or rude, with her foster parents even believing she was 'possessed.' Despite being academically brilliant, Carole struggled with social cues and carried a lifelong feeling of being fundamentally different.

Her revelation arrived unexpectedly when her youngest son was diagnosed with autism. As clinicians described his traits, Carole immediately recognized the parallels in herself. A subsequent evaluation provided clarity she had sought her entire life, affirming she was not “evil” or “difficult” but autistic—a realization that replaced decades of shame with understanding and relief.

Carole’s story mirrors that of countless autistic women who remain undiagnosed due to gendered misconceptions. Research indicates up to 90 percent of older autistic adults remain unidentified, with women disproportionately misdiagnosed with anxiety, mood disorders, or personality disorders. Their ability to “mask,” mimic social behaviors, and hide distress often leads clinicians to overlook autism—resulting in years of confusion, burnout, and misdiagnosis.

Gender differences in autism presentation contribute significantly to this diagnostic gap. Diagnostic tools long centered on male behavioral patterns miss subtler expressions common among women, such as advanced social mimicry, intensely focused interests, or strict adherence to routines. Women often internalize these challenges, leading to chronic anxiety, people-pleasing, or depression—patterns that Carole herself vividly embodied.

Encouragingly, diagnostic rates among women are rising as awareness improves. For many, a diagnosis brings both “grief and relief,” offering context for a lifetime of social strain and emotional exhaustion. For Carole, it became a catalyst for empowerment. She transformed her hyperfocus—a common autistic trait into a thriving tech career, eventually founding her company, TechWitch, and a charity, Atypify, dedicated to helping autistic children explore STEM pathways.

Staci and Carole’s journeys highlight an urgent need to recognize the diverse manifestations of neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental conditions. Their stories challenge stereotypes, call for improved diagnostic processes, and remind us of the power of early identification in fostering dignity, self-acceptance, and understanding for millions navigating these invisible challenges.