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Danreed Books

INSIDE THE BOOK

A Memoir of Discovery, Humor, and Human Connection

Paid for the Privilege: Hearing the Voices of Autism follows Dan Reed’s unexpected journey from the business world into Midway Training Services, where he worked alongside autistic adults and people with developmental disabilities.

 

Through candid memories, self-deprecating humor, and deeply personal encounters, Dan reflects on the assumptions he once held and the people who changed his understanding of communication, dignity, friendship, and human potential. The book preserves his experiences and beliefs during an important period in the history of disability services.

An Unexpected Beginning

A routine search for a marketing position leads Dan into an unfamiliar environment that ultimately transforms his life.

The Meaning Behind the Title

The title reflects a difficult question: What does friendship mean when many people in someone’s life are paid professionals?

Looking Beyond Behavior

The memoir encourages readers to look past outward actions and consider the person, emotions, and needs behind them.

Humor, Humanity, and Change

Dan uses honest humor to make challenging experiences approachable while documenting his growth from uncertainty to advocacy.

Our Book

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Dan Reed’s candid and heartfelt memoir follows an unexpected journey into the world of autism, one that challenged his assumptions and deepened his understanding of communication, dignity, friendship, and human connection.