A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

In honor of world cerebral palsy day, ADHD awareness month and national disability employment awareness month

BEKAH NIXON

This photo is a representation of hope for our family! With all she goes through with Cerebral Palsy, Autism, ADHD, epilepsy among others, she is still able to smile after a tough day!

JAMEY ROWE

This photo of Jamey Rowe proudly holding his diploma from Berklee College of Music represents the power of perseverance, purpose, and passion. As an individual with Autism, Jamey has overcome barriers that once seemed insurmountable. He was one of 1,600 graduates who walked across the stage in May, 2025, earning his Bachelors of Arts degree in Piano Performance, a dream he accomplished in just two years.

JAYLAH

Jaylah is such a strong, smart girl who beats the odds everyday! She has been through so much in her 11 years of life and has excelled through it all! She is blind, autistic and has ADHD. She is a musical genius and I’m so proud of her!

NOEL DOOGS/

PHOTO BY OPTIMAL ACCESS / ACCESS ACADEMY

Noel Doogs is a nonspeaking autistic individual with neuromotor apraxia and cerebral palsy. He was underestimated and segregated for many years, but in 2023, at the age of 22, he got his wish to start earning his HS diploma. With the help of his letterboard, his communication regulation partner (CRP), and an innovative education program in Indiana, ACCESS Academy, Noel earned his 21 HS credits and graduated with an accredited diploma in 2025! He’s got his sights on college next!