The Miracle Project and The Magic Paintbrush Project

This post isn't about Bil.  Well, maybe it is, in a way.  Two shoutouts. 

Again, I can wish these projects were around when Bil was younger, but wishes really don't accomplish anything.

I wanted to give a shout out to actor Jack Black and his work with autism, as he raises awareness of autism
through The Miracle Project.

And locally, there is a wonderful organization in my city called The Magic Paintbrush project.

One day, there will be an organization just for Bil.

So many lost opportunities.  We still hunt for the found opportunity, the one that will make a true difference in Bil's life.  Until then.....

Sigh.

James Durbin Rocks Again on Idol

Tonight, on the finale of American Idol, James Durbin performed with Judas Priest.

James Durbin, the contestant best known for having Asperger Syndrome.  So, of course, he had to become my favorite.  And then he got voted out. (but I know he will be a star, anyway).  Asperger Syndrome should not define him.  His voice rocks!

He did very nicely singing with Judas Priest.

I wonder how much all the lighting on the stage, the noise, the audience, bothers him.  But in a way he is my hero.  He has overcome a lot to be here. 

I hope he enjoyed his rockers' dream come true tonight. 

My American Idol

As many in the autism-related community know, there is an American Idol contestant, James Durbin, who has Asperger's Syndrome.  He thrilled me this past week with his performance of Judas Priests' You Have Another Thing Coming.  It's nice to have a rocker in this competition.

James Durbin brings his own style to the competition.  While Bil does not appear to show musical talent, he does love to listen to the radio.  One day, maybe, James Durbin will be on there and Bil will enjoy him.

Many people think of people with Aspergers of  being talented in science ("geeks"), but there are a good number of people on the Spectrum who have talent in music or art.

It's nice to see one of them making it in the neurotypical world.