Since the video went viral what response/comments have you received?We are very pleased his video has touched so many people and happy to report that the center has received calls from parents seeking help with their children’s education. One of my favorite comments was from a lady who had just had a rough day with her child and of how it gave her hope and strength. Teachers, speech therapists, scout masters and youth group volunteers are using the video to educate their children on what it is to be autistic. I have heard of a scout group in North Carolina showing the video to its members. Several teachers at his high school and in the lower grades have shown the video during class time. The spectrum school in our area has viewed the video. We have been asked to be of help at the Milestone National Autism Convention this summer by the keynote speaker. We have just been contacted by our state educators support team who asked permission to use the video.
We are on websites all over the web, including Yahoo.com, and have been viewed in one hundred and fifty five nations. But my favorite is when they announced him at his high school pep rally and the kids gave him a standing ovation .If it sounds like I’m bragging about my son, I just might be a little. But actually, it is so gratifying to know that we have been able to help and humbling to receive such heartfelt responses. We have been overwhelmed by the response that we received. We have been flooded with personal and flattering comments from those celebrating their and our accomplishments, to encourage others to try again and keep trying.
With the truth that 1 in 50 boys being diagnosed, the chance that a person will come in contact or know a person or family member with autism… is certain. So we are receiving feedback from people with varying backgrounds, educations, cultures, careers, situations and interests. Many have quoted back the parts of the video that affects them and we are surprised by all the different quotes.The overall message is that a diagnosis is not the end of the world. I particularly liked that Michael told that autism does not need to be fixed. What have his experiences been as a young man living with autism in the local community?
We have always expressed to Michael that he has to do more than a regular developing child because so many people won’t believe that he can do the things he has done. I think that is his main difficulty, that others don’t think he can do it, and won’t give him the extra time that it takes for him to do his work. It is difficult for some people to be patient. In scouting, they have a policy. “Don’t do for a child what a child can do for himself.” So that is the policy we keep.
Does Michael have any plans to make any more films?
I don’t think Michael will make any more films but he loves acting so it’s not out of the question.
Does Michael have a message for our readers?
Michael said. If you can’t watch the whole video, then the last four slides say the message he wants to get across. “It’s Not your Fault” “You’re Not Alone” “Early intervention is the key” and “With proper education many can lead an independent life.” So parents please, seek the help your child needs to learn.
We would also like to wish Michael all the best in his future as an Eagle Scout.