What happens to a child whose mind refuses to fit the mold? Born in Cabo Verde during a time

when differences were punished instead of understood, Lourenco F. Tavares grew up restless,

curious, and mislabeled. Teachers called him lazy. The system called him broken. Yet through

a mother's unwavering belief and a lifelong pursuit of meaning, he turned silence into

understanding" and stigma into strength. From ADD to PhD is the true story of a boy once

shamed for his mind who rose to become a psychologist, counselor, and educator. Blending

memoir, psychology, and cultural insight, Dr. Tavares explores how colonial legacies,

immigrant struggles, and family resilience shape identity. His story is not only personal" it is a

mirror for countless families still fighting to be heard. A moving journey from misdiagnosis to

self-discovery, From ADD to PhD reminds us that difference is not disorder" and that healing

begins with understanding