My winning the award made me open my eyes to the possibilities before me. I am hoping to join the council next year. I am hoping to finish high school and go to college. I  can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Cross your weakness’ off your list and work on your strengths. Make the most of every opportunity. My goal is to speak to the bureaucrats who help make things happen. Keep choosing to be motivated ! I am not finished fighting til everyone who wants an education gets one.

joshs speech :  Thank you very much for thinking me worthy of this honor . Meeting people has always made me nervous so tonight is a very big step toward my future experience with public speaking, a goal of mine.  i worry about the awesome responsibility this is to represent people who type to communicate. There will be a day when presuming competence will be the norm, but until then i will work to bring awareness and dispel the myths about autism that have kept me locked inside this crazy body for 17 long years. Thank you to my grandpa Mike for helping the school. Thank you to Casey for being my coach and Tammy for bringing me an education. Thank you to Gail for helping set up ACCESS. Thank you brenda for supporting ACCESS Academy. Thank you to grandma Judy and my mom for believing in my abilities. Thank you to Ash for taking me in the car with you. Thank you to Craig for praying for me. Thank you to Lynda for watching me.  Thank you to God for this chance. Dont let any more people with autism suffer in silence!