Picture a devoted attorney who turned her life’s challenges into a powerful memoir that’s changing how we understand autism—meet Valerie Gilpeer! Alongside her daughter Emily, she co-authored the heartfelt I Have Been Buried Under Years of Dust, a story that unveils the vibrant inner world of a nonverbal autistic woman. Valerie’s journey from courtroom advocate to celebrated author is as inspiring as it is eye-opening, blending legal tenacity with a mother’s unwavering love.
Valerie’s story isn’t just about writing; it’s about breaking barriers. Her work shines a light on the autism community, offering hope and insight to families navigating similar paths. Let’s dive into the life of this remarkable woman who’s redefining what it means to give voice to the voiceless.
The Making of Valerie Gilpeer
Valerie Gilpeer grew up in a Jewish family where education was prized, though expectations for her leaned toward traditional roles. Undeterred, she pursued higher education with zeal, earning a law degree and embarking on a 40-year career as an attorney. Initially focused on civil litigation, her life took a profound turn when her daughter Emily was diagnosed with nonverbal autism at age two. This personal milestone steered Valerie toward disability rights law, where she became a fierce advocate for families seeking educational services for their children.
Her shift to disability rights wasn’t just a career change; it was a calling. Inspired by Emily’s challenges, Valerie immersed herself in volunteer work with Los Angeles nonprofits, honing her expertise and empathy. This foundation of advocacy and resilience would later fuel her writing, culminating in a memoir that’s both personal and universal.
Valerie Gilpeer’s Unforgettable Stories
Valerie’s most notable work is I Have Been Buried Under Years of Dust, co-authored with Emily and published in 2021. The memoir chronicles Emily’s breakthrough at age 25, when she used facilitated communication to type her first sentence: “I have been buried under years of dust and now I have so much to say.” Valerie’s narrative weaves her perspective as a mother and advocate, while Emily’s poetic contributions reveal a rich inner life previously hidden by her autism. The book is a tapestry of struggle, love, and triumph, praised by figures like Temple Grandin for its raw honesty.
Unlike traditional memoirs, Valerie’s writing style is candid yet hopeful, avoiding self-pity while offering practical insights for families affected by autism. She shares the chaos of Emily’s early years—meltdowns, therapies, and systemic battles—alongside moments of joy and discovery. Emily’s sections, left unedited to preserve her voice, add a lyrical depth, making the book a unique mother-daughter collaboration. While I Have Been Buried is Valerie’s primary published work, its impact has sparked interest in adaptations, with a short film in development produced by Marta Kauffman.
The memoir stands out for its dual perspective, blending Valerie’s legal and parental insights with Emily’s firsthand account of autism. It’s not just a story; it’s a call to rethink assumptions about nonverbal individuals, making it a vital contribution to autism literature.
Why Valerie Gilpeer Matters
Valerie Gilpeer’s influence extends beyond the page. As a disability rights advocate, she’s empowered countless families to navigate complex educational systems. Her memoir has reshaped perceptions of autism, emphasizing that nonspeaking doesn’t mean nonthinking. By amplifying Emily’s voice, Valerie has challenged stereotypes, earning praise from autism advocates like Edlyn Peña for inspiring inclusion and agency.
Her legacy lies in her courage to share a deeply personal story, offering hope to parents and a platform for autistic voices. Valerie’s work reminds us that perseverance and love can unlock extraordinary potential, making her a beacon for the autism community and beyond.
- Born: Not publicly disclosed
- Key Work: I Have Been Buried Under Years of Dust (2021)
- Career: Attorney specializing in disability rights
- Notable Recognition: Amazon Editors’ Pick, NPR Best Books selection
Ready to be inspired? Grab I Have Been Buried Under Years of Dust and dive into Valerie and Emily’s transformative journey!