Regina business owner opens up about autism diagnosis

A Regina business owner received an unexpected diagnosis after seeing some specialists.

Jasmine Gemmell, owner of Bellezza Moda Beauty and Fashion, saw a doctor after she claimed she was more depressed than usual while her business was closed because of COVID-19.

“I had a lot of time to think and reflect when my store was closed, so I went to my doctor and I ended up seeing a psychologist and a psychiatrist,” Gemmell said. “I went into it open-minded, hoping to find a solution for my thoughts.”

Gemmell received a diagnosis she did not expect: She found out she had autism.

“I’ve always been a little quirky and weird. I think that my family just accepted it as my personality because I was an only child,” Gemmell said. “Looking back, there was definitely so many little things that I would do that make sense now.”

At first, Gemmell claimed she was uncomfortable with the results.

“When I first got the diagnosis, it was kind of upsetting and confusing but over time, it has allowed me to find a way to cope with my everyday life,” Gemmell said. “I think I have mostly wanted people to know that they can have success despite any kind of adversity.”

After some time and consideration, she decided to go public with her results, receiving an outpouring of support in the process.

“I just wanted people to know me for the way I am,” Gemmell said.

“I could be a source of inspiration or information for other people who have been diagnosed. Maybe they will see my story and see that they can find success in anything that they do.”