Remember this?….

Our Kenny had his own K Mac moment playing basketball at Northgate around that time. Sean was coaching during the Saturday morning mid-winter program when Kenny got popped in the face with the ball and blood erupted all over his bright orange Northgate T-shirt. They doctored him up with a wad of tissues, set him on “the bench”, gave him a new T-shirt and the game proceeded. Sean let Kenny know he didn’t have to go back into the game, but Kenny kept telling his dad he wanted to return. The game was close and Kenny wanted to play. In the last few seconds, the game was tied when Kenny made his shot and scored the point that brought his team to victory. It was an exhilarating moment! Here Kenny could have used his bloody nose as an excuse to sit out but he was determined to make a contribution. It’s this sort of effort that I have seen in Kenny time and time again. Never using his disability as an out, always pursuing his dream to be the best he can be despite the odds against him. By the way, we still have that blood stained shirt. It’s a memento and a reminder to never give up. I think I’ll stuff it in his tennis bag. A little “go get em” from mom as he struggles to prove himself yet again during another season.

After watching Temple Grandin with our EaGeR support group friends this past weekend, I’m hungry for more movies that portray individuals with autism overcoming the odds against them. Showing all the cynics what they are made of and proving to them that a person with autism doesn’t have to settle for second best. My mind wanders back to J Mac. I’ve read your book! Now where’s your movie?! Come on J Mac! Show us what your made of!

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