Recently I saw a post on Facebook for a video from a popular singing show – Britain’s Got Talent. The title of the video caught my attention, as many do like this, as it stated: “Viral 10 year old boy with Autism shines in Britain’s Got Talent 2018“. This caught my attention for sure and I happily clicked on the video to learn more and see this young boy’s story and singing. The singing was fantastic – and young Calum has an amazing voice. However, sadly, this particular video clip made no mention of Calum having Autism but it was clearly placed in the video title. This fact alone got me somewhat frustrated because why would you (whoever posted the video) put up a video with that title without even having anything in there to inform the viewer more about the subject? Of course, my mind went even further with this because that’s so much of what it’s about in all of today’s media. It wasn’t until I read into it more on my own and found out what the boy has to deal with and I finally came across some information and an interview with his Mom. Calum has “high functioning Autism…”.
This got me thinking even more. In the world of Autism there is the Autism Spectrum which is also widely understood at the Autism Spectrum “Umbrella” where many different classifications of abilities, disabilities and diagnosis’ are placed. Shane was placed under this umbrella just before he turned 2 years old – almost 16 years ago. But for us, there isn’t an umbrella. To us, there are children, adolescents and adults… with Autism. Now, don’t get upset with where you may “think” I am going with this. For many people there is a problem with the classifications as well as putting so many people under the umbrella.
I believe this happens all to often, much like you will find with young Calum’s amazing story. Describing Calum as having Autism may be accurate and I am going with the fact that this is a true diagnosis here and no other assumptions made. However, when you view a story of a 10 year old Autistic boy that sings in front of thousands, he’s communicative and articulate and also has a recording deal coming his way you have to think about that a bit. Then you look at others under the “umbrella” who can perform well… but in private. Or others that can communicate only to their family or care givers. Then there are the savants that have such an amazing mind that they are sought after in awe. And, of course there are those that not as many videos like this show – individuals that struggle to do the most basic skills and get so combative that families are left scared and yearning for answers… and help. But all of these people are just that, they are people; humans with differences and yet they are classified under one umbrella of many different characteristics in the Autism Spectrum.
I don’t want someone coming up to me and asking “Oh, your son Shane has Autism? Does he sing like that boy Calum?” or “Does Shane know all the stuff like Rainman?”. It’s different. Very different for every individual person that has Autism, that is a fact. But how we not only perceive each person and learn their own unique traits, we must also help each person have the best representation for what they are and not just what they can or cannot do. Does that make sense? I mean if we all want to be equal – and I truly believe that at the end of the day we are – we need to consider how and when “labels” are used. It’s a very tough conversation to go through but at least consider this: If you want to label someone or something… make sure you are doing it, or using it, for the right reason. I don’t think Calum’s Autism will define his future. From what we’ve seen with his singing ability – that alone will take him very far in life as long as his family helps guide his path and Autism should not be the justification for Calum to need a different or greater audience. He’s going to do great things.
Feel free to leave some comments or feedback on this. I’m not here to debate anyone, but rather give a perspective on a subject that can be tough to even discuss.
I've Been Thinking 