Former MORBID ANGEL drummer Pedro "Pete" Sandoval has opened up about his journey with autism, revealing he's been properly diagnosed after years of misdiagnosis.

The 61-year-old musician took to Instagram on February 5 to share his story, stating that he's "finally" received a diagnosis as autistic (Level 1) after undergoing the ADOS-2 assessment.

Sandoval explains that this has affected how he communicates, processes sound, and interacts with people since childhood.

He notes that it was never about not caring or wanting to connect, but rather not having the words or understanding for his experiences.

Now at 61, Sandoval says that clarity has brought a lot of peace and explains much about himself.

He's grateful to still be playing music with his current projects I AM MORBID and TERRORIZER, despite life challenges and back surgery.

Sandoval also credits sharing his story for helping others feel less alone or more patient with themselves or others.

I AM MORBID features another former MORBID ANGEL member David Vincent on bass, plus guitarists Richie Brown (EXMORTUS, THE ABSENCE, TRIVIUM) and Bill Hudson (NORTHTALE, DORO).

The band plays material from MORBID ANGEL's classic albums, including "Altars Of Madness", "Blessed Are The Sick", "Covenant", and "Domination".

I AM MORBID's spring 2022 European tour marked the first time Sandoval and Vincent played together in 12 years.

Sandoval was forced to leave MORBID ANGEL in 2010 after undergoing surgery for a prolapsed disc, with Vincent stating that Sandoval had "found Jesus" – meaning they were no longer compatible.

Prior to joining I AM MORBID, Sandoval spent time recording and touring with TERRORIZER, whose latest studio album was released in October 2018 via The End Records.