Kathy
Thursday, April 30, 2009

I'm a family member

The story of my son Nick, who is 14 and was diagnosed with autism at the age of 20 months, and his 3-pointer during the final basketball game at our middle school was a local news story that made him a hero to his family and friends. When it aired on the “Today Show” the following day, we received an overwhelming amount of support and pride from across the country.

For most kids, the highlight would have been the fact that they were on TV—much less national TV. But for Nick, the best part was being able to start in the game, run through the tunnel of cheerleaders and get a chance to play. He was somewhat bemused and overwhelmed by all the attention he received through the media coverage and at school. What mattered most to Nick was that even after his team’s win—they didn’t make the playoffs.

Nick’s 3-pointer was inspirational. But his real story is one of guts and perseverance. Nick’s story is about the need for early diagnosis, intervention, funding and medical insurance to cover autism treatments. He did not get to the point he is today by osmosis or luck. Nick is where he is because of years of hard work and support, not only from teachers and professionals, but also from other parents.

He has worked hard to make his middle school’s honor roll 3 years in a row. Along the way, Nick has been involved in soccer and flag football, and earned a black belt in karate at 11. He started in cub scouts in first grade and has continued with boy scouts, where he is just shy of achieving the Eagle rank. Most important to Nick, he’s been in charge of stats for the boys’ and girls’ basketball games. All typical activities, surrounded by typical peers. The more we’ve told people about Nick and his disability, the more they’ve been willing to help and teach their own children tolerance, patience and acceptance. And that’s all any kid wants.