As some of you know, my youngest son has a genetic disorder called Tuberous Sclerosis. It affects different people in many different ways. For him it has meant seizures, mental retardation, autism, ADHD, severe behavioral issues, kidney issues, as well as skin tumors and more.
I've always pushed him to try things well beyond his "comfort zone". I've wanted him to learn the lyrics to the National Anthem for years... but he has never shown much interest. I needed some outside motivation.
He attends an Adult Program that for the past 13 years has held a spring basketball game -- the students against the local Sheriff's Department (their offices are literally across the street from the program site).
I contacted Ryan's teacher and asked if Ryan could sing the National Anthem (in the past they just played a CD version and the crowd sings along). His teacher said yes. One of the classroom aides was going to have her daughter (able-bodied) sing along with him ... just in case. But at the last inute -- she backed out! I was afraid he would... but nope..
From not even knowing the words 2 weeks ago -- last night he sang it in front of a crowd of about 250. Not bad for a kid with autism!
You can hear him here: