ADHD Aha! When one twin has ADHD and gets labeled “the bad one” (Lisa McNeil’s story)
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Oct 14, 2025 Lisa McNeil, a former paramedic and musician, shares her journey as the 'bad' twin who was later diagnosed with ADHD. She reflects on how music, particularly playing the violin, unexpectedly enhanced her reading and focus. The conversation dives into the impact of her childhood labeling and the contrasting personalities between her and her sister. Lisa discusses how joining a Duke University study led to her diagnosis, which reframed her understanding of herself and improved her life significantly.
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Labeled The 'Bad' Twin
- Lisa remembers being labeled the "bad" twin and later realizing that label was unfair.
- Her sister Lori helped her see they were similar and that nothing was "bad" about her.
Being The 'Older' Twin
- Lisa explains how being three minutes older shaped her role as the protective, 'older' twin.
- She felt responsibility to be braver and to look after Lori from a young age.
Fourth Grade And The First D
- The move in fourth grade exposed Lisa to a stricter, quieter school that left her unstimulated and struggling.
- She got her first D and cried, but her mother asked if she did her best, which comforted her.