Mikey Brannigan

Autism Light #472 is Mikey Brannigan.

Michael “Mikey” Brannigan is a 23 year old runner from Huntington, New York  He is the first American with autism to win the gold in the 1500 meter race of the Paralympics. He is also the first runner with autism to competitively break four minutes in the mile. His goal is to compete in the 2024 Olympics in Tokyo. Mikey Brannigan is an Autism Light because he serves as an inspiration for others with autism as he achieves greatness in running and grows through his challenges in life.

Mikey Brannigan was diagnosed with autism at age 2. His parents Edie and Kevin Brannigan took him to a running club for kids with special needs called “Rolling Thunder”. He excelled in the club under the training of coach Steve Cuomo.

Mikey Brannigan graduated in 2015 from Northport High School in Huntington, New York. He was one of the top track athletes in the country in 2015 and received letters of interest from colleges throughout the United States. However, because of his learning disability he could not meet the academic requirements of the NCAA and did not attend college.The following is a biographical video of Mikey Brannigan from when he was awarded the High School Athlete of the. Month by Sports Illustrated.

When asked if his autism makes him a better runner, Mikey Brannigan said that it makes him “a better person.” Today Sonja Robinson coaches Mikey Brannigan and keeps him going toward his goal of qualifying for the 2024 Olympic in Tokyo (For more information see “Coach Sonja Robinson Keeps Mikey Brannigan On Track”). Mikey practices at the New York Athletic Club, who sponsors some of his travel expenses for events. The following is a video of the NBC news story about Mikey Brannigan winning the Gold Medal for the Paralympics in 2016. 

For more information on Mikey Brannigan read these stories and blog posts about his achievements.

• Edith Brannigan on Raising an Athlete with Autism (Miles Split USA, April 5, 2019)
• In 20 years, Northport’s Mikey Brannigan has raced his way to a lifetime of achievements (TBR Media, August 11, 2017)
• The Unstoppable Star: Mikey Brannigan (Runner’s World, January 25, 2017)
• Autistic Runner Mikey Brannigan Makes History At 2016 Paralympics (The Art of Autism blog, October 4, 2016)
• How Running Changed Mikey Brannigan’s Life with Autism (Team USA, April 1, 2016)

Wikipedia: To find out more about Mikey Brannigan visit the Mikey Brannigan Wikipedia Page.

Social Media: You can follow Mikey Brannigan on the following social media areas. 

• Facebook at the Following Mikey Brannigan Page.
• Twitter @MikeyBrannigan

Special thanks to Mikey Brannigan for being an Autism Light. He serves as an inspiration to many families with autism and demonstrates how running can potentially help those with special needs to shine. We wish Mikey best of luck in training for the Olympics. We expect to hear great things from Mikey Brannigan in the years to come.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Mike Iaconelli

Autism Light #459 is Mike Iaconelli.

Mike Iaconelli is a professional bass fisherman (BASS Elite Series angler), television personality, and podcast show host from Pittsgrove Township, New Jersey. He was born on June 17, 1972. He and his wife Becky have four children. Mike Iaconelli, whose nickname is Ike, is an Autism Light because of his concern to raise awareness for autism. He becomes the first professional fisherman to appear on Autism Light. His name will be placed today on the Autism Light Sports Page, along with other athletes that have been recognized through the years.

In November 2009, Mike Iaconelli cut off his famous beard and he sold it on eBay with the proceeds going to the New England Center for Children, a school for autism in Southborough, Massachusetts. See Ike Auctions Off His Lucky Beard on eBay for Autism Charity for more information on this charitable news.

The following is a YouTube video where Mike Iaconelli explains about his lucky beard helping an auction charity.

Fishin' with a Mission: The auction Mike Iaconelli did to benefit autism was utilized to further the efforts of the Fishin' with a Mission decal program that is led by Eli Delany. More information on this autism awareness initiative of Fishin' with a Mission is at www.mylittlebuddysboat.com.

Television Show: In 2017, Mike Iaconelli started the Going Ike television series on the Pursuit Channel.

Wikipedia: Visit the Michael Iaconelli Wikipedia Page for more information on this Autism Light.

Social Media: For more information on Michael Iaconelli, follow him at these social media channels.

• Facebook Page for Mike Iaconelli
• Twitter @mike_Iaconelli
• YouTube Channel for Mike Iaconelli Bass Fishing

Special thanks to Michael Iaconelli for helping the New England Center for Children and for raising awareness for autism. Hopefully this action will encourage other celebrities to help relieve some of the financial needs that autism agencies have.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Oklahoma State University Athletics

Autism Light #419 is Oklahoma State University Athletics.

Oklahoma State University was founded in 1890 and is a state research university located in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Oklahoma State University Athletics field 16 varsity teams that compete in the Big 12 Conference. Oklahoma State University Athletics is an Autism Light because they have created an I'm A-OK initiative for 2015 football games in order to help people with autism who attend their events.

Oklahoma State University Athletics worked with an autism mother Jennifer Sollars Miller of the Autism Center of Tulsa to devise a plan to make the Oklahoma State University football games more autism friendly. The I'm A-OK initiative will start with Oklahoma State University's 2015 football games that are played at Boone Pickens Stadium.

Berry Tramel and Kyle Frederickson describe this groundbreaking program in university athletics this way, "With this program, kids can voluntarily wear a badge with an 'I'm A-OK' symbol on it, so trained stadium and event staff will be able to identify those with autism and make their families feel more comfortable bringing them to Boone Pickens Stadium (Newsok.com, July 6, 2015)."

The following is a news story by Berry Tramel and Kyle Frederickson on this autism initiative by the Oklahoma State University Atheltics.



Wikipedia: For more information on Oklahoma State University Athletics visit their Wikipedia page.

Social Media: You can follow Oklahoma State University Athletics on the following social media pages.

• Facebook Page for Oklahoma State University Athletics
• Twitter @OSUAthletics
• Twitter @OSUFanex

Tickets: To order tickets for Oklahoma State University athletic events, including football games, call 1-877-ALL-4-OSU or email tickets@okstate.edu.

Special thanks to Oklahoma State Athletics for their I'm A-OK autism initiative. What a great example of how a University Athletic program can raise awareness for Autism. If this initiative is successful at football games hopefully it will expand to other sporting events. May Oklahoma State University inspire other university athletic departments to highlight autism in their game experiences.

 Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Alex Cohen

Autism Light #406 is Alex Cohen.

Alex Cohen is an autism sister and is from Bayside, Wisconsin. Her older brother Aaron Cohen has autism. Alex Cohen played college basketball for four years at Northwestern University. Alex Cohen is an Autism Light for the work she did in the leadership of the Autism Speaks U chapter at Northwestern University from 2012-2015.

The following is a video done on Alex Cohen as one of the Faces of the Big Ten.

Northwestern University Basketball: While playing college basketball at Northwestern University, Alex Cohen played for Coach Joe McKeown, who was Autism Light #382. Alex scored 646 points in her career at Northwestern University and made almost 40% of her three point shots. Her statistics for her career are on her page on the NUSports webpage. She also earned All Big Ten Academic Honors in the Winter 2015.

Alex Cohen of @nuwbball earned 2015 Winter Academic-All B1G honors as well as 2015 WBCA Good Works Team Selection. pic.twitter.com/GMGg1mU4dx

— B1G Women's Hoops (@B1Gwbball) April 3, 2015

Autism Speaks U: Alex Cohen served as the President of Autism Speaks U at Northwestern University from 2012-2014. In her senior year (2014-2015) she transitioned to the Vice-President and created and led an initiative for autism awareness and fundraising called NU Goes Blue.

"Most of the events we've coordinated through Autism Speaks U have been geared specifically toward Northwestern students," said Cohen. "I really wanted to create something that the surrounding community could be involved in as well. When I thought of the idea for NU Goes Blue, one of my main goals was raise autism awareness beyond Northwestern's campus and into the Evanston and Chicagoland communities. We're bringing everyone together for a fun evening that supports a great cause (NU Sports.com, September 29, 2014)."

Alex Cohen's work for Autism Speaks U earned her a spot on the 2015 All State Good Works Team. Here is a video of her selection.

Future Plans: Alex Cohen graduated in 2015 with a degree from Northwestern University in Human Development and Psychological Services. Alex Cohen hopes to continue her basketball career in a professional international league. She plans to use her education to work with individuals with autism after she finishes her professional basketball career.

Special thanks to Alex Cohen for being an Autism Light. We wish her all the best in her professional basketball career and in her future work as an autism advocate. Alex is representative of the growing number of autism siblings who are poised to make a difference in the world for their relatives and for all those impacted by autism.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Jason Allison

Autism Light #383 is Jason Allison. 

Jason Allison is the assistant coach for the men's basketball team at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. He was born on July 23, 1976.  Jason is married to Hope (McLaughlin) Allison. Jason Allison is an autism father. His 8 year old soon Riley and 6 year old son Ryder both have autism. Jason Allison is an Autism Light for his advocacy for autism as an assistant basketball coach.

Jason Allison earned his B.A. in Physical Education from Liberty University in 1999. He played basketball at Liberty University from 1995-1998. Jason Allison was hired by Appalachian State University to be the Assistant Coach in 2014. He served from 2005-2014 as the Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Virginia Military Institute. You can read the complete details about Jason Allison's experience at the Appalachian State Athletics Website.

Here is a video about the journey of Jason Allison's family in the world of autism that was used by the Appalachian State Men's Basketball program to promote their Autism Awareness Game against Troy on February 7, 2015.



Top Fundraiser in Coaches Powering Forward for Autism: Coaches Powering Forward for Autism partners with Autism Speaks and funds raised benefit the work of Autism Speaks. Appalachian State University participated in the campaign in their game against Troy on February 7, 2015. Thanks in part to Jason and Hope Allison's passion for autism, Jason's head coach Jim Fox was the top fundraiser on the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign for 2015. As of March 28, 2015, Jason Allison had raised $2,457 of the $3,799 raised for autism on behalf of the Appalachian State University Basketball Team.

Jason Allison described part of the autism awareness that arises from the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign that doesn't involve the fundraising. "We wear pins on our suits and it catches people's attention. It's something the rest of America has the opportunity to look at, ask questions, research and learn about. It is one of the better ways that we can draw attention to this on going process (As Quoted by Kayla May, The Appalachian, February 10, 2015)."

Building Autism Awareness for College Students:  Jason Allison said, "[Autism affects] one in 68 children now and the number is increasing. The student body will come in contact with autism at some point in their life, whether it's a family member or their own children. If it's something they can learn about now they can be aware of it. It won't hit them blind like it did me and my wife (As Quoted by Kayla May, The Appalachian, February 10, 2015)."

Social Media:  You can follow Jason Allison on Twitter@JAllison10.

'Autism Awareness in College Hoops' is this weekend. Thx to @CoachPatSkerry for bringing attention to it. My boys! pic.twitter.com/HMl47NpjYU — Jason Allison (@JAllison10) January 31, 2014

Special thanks to Jason Allison for being an Autism Light. His dedication as a father of two boys with autism is an example to other fathers. The way in which he uses his position as an assistant coach to raise autism awareness is a light for the autism community. We wish Jason Allison continued success as an autism father and coach.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Joe McKeown

Autism Light #382 is Joe McKeown.

Joe McKeown is the coach of the women's basketball team at Northwestern University near Chicago, Illinois. He was born on May 12, 1956. Joe McKeown is also an Autism Father. His 20 year old son Joey has autism. Joe McKeown is an Autism Light in part for how he uses his position as the coach of a Division I NCAA basketball program to spread autism awareness. But ultimately Joe is an Autism Light because of his dedication to place his role as an autism father above his coaching career.

Joe McKeown has been a women's basketball coach since 1986. In June, 2008, Joe McKeown unexpectedly left his highly successful position as the women's basketball coach at George Washington University to take over as the coach for a struggling Northwestern program. His move was not to advance his career, but it was for his son Joey to have better educational opportunities available him in the Chicagoland area.

Those closest to McKeown knew his decision to take over Northwestern's long-struggling program had nothing to do with basketball. McKeown was leaving because his high school-bound son, Joey, had been diagnosed with autism and educational resources were lacking in Northern Virginia (The Washington Post, Gene Wang, February 28, 2015).

Being a coach in a rebuilding program is a challenge. After several average years at Northwestern, coach Joe McKeown had a breakthrough year in the 2014-2015 season where his team won 23 games and they were selected for a birth in the Women's NCAA Tournament, losing in the first round to Arkansas. During this season he passed 600 wins in his coaching career. Here is a video congratulating Joe McKeown on the milestone of 600 wins.

Autism Awareness:  In 2008, Joe McKeown brought a case to Congress to battle for autism awareness. Although he lost that fight with the government he was determined after that to do what he could to raise awareness as a coach (Northwestern Wears Blue for Autism, Chicago Talks, May 12, 2014).  Kaitlyn Cubacub wrote about the autism awareness legacy that Coach Joe McKeown brought with him to Northwestern in 2008,

This was wear Northwestern sports made their turnaround. The women's basketball team changed their game plan, it wasn't so much about winning anymore, it was deeper than a victory. Their mission now was to create autism awareness at every game they could. Whether it be wearing autism awareness pins or holding fundraisers throughout the season, the team made sure that every opportunity didn't go untouched (Kaitlyn Cubacub, Northwestern Wears Blue for Autism, Chicago Talks, May 12, 2014)

Under Coach Joe McKeown's leadership, the Northwestern University Women's Basketball Team has an annual Autism Awareness Game. During this home game the Northwestern fans are encouraged to wear blue for autism awareness. They also open the event to autism families in the Chicagoland to enjoy a special day with their kids in a wonderful atmosphere. In addition, the team participates with other Northwestern athletes in an annual walk for autism at Chicago's Soldier Field.

Playing Career: The Northwestern Sports website says that,

As a player, McKeown earned Junior College National Small Player of the Year honors at Mercer College in Trenton, N.J. He helped the team to a 33-1 record and a spot in the NJCAA Championship game. McKeown transferred to Kent State the following season, where was the co-captain of the Golden Flashes as a senior and earned honorable mention All-Mid-American Conference honors. His school-record 15 assists in a game still stands (Northwestern Sports, Joe McKeown Bio).

.@jasondorow writes that Joe McKeown has #Northwestern ready to compete on the big stage: http://t.co/mV65MELyov pic.twitter.com/Li2eZbtUKa
— Inside NU (@insidenu) March 3, 2015

On Dealing With Schools:  Joe McKeown said this about the difficulty faced by autism parents in educating their special needs children.

We've all fought over the years just trying to create awareness and trying to get the kids better opportunities and schools and not be pushed to the side. That's still our biggest fight. The principals and education systems. Every school you talk to is broke. Every state in the country is broke. The laws are there. It's just being able to enforce the laws and make sure these kids get the money that's supposed to be allocated (Joe McKeown as Quoted by Neil Hayes, November 23, 2012).

Other Information: You can read more about Joe McKeown and his work with autism in these online news stories:

• At Northwestern, Joe McKeown Balances Family and Winning (Washington Post, February 28, 2015)
• Northwestern Wears Blue for Autism (Chicago Talks, May 12, 2014)
• Women's Basketball to Host Autism Awareness Game (Inside Northwestern Sports, November 23, 2012)
• Coach, Family Find Right Fit at NU (ESPN.com, February 2, 2011)

Wikipedia: The Wikipedia Page for Joe McKeown has more information on his life and coaching career statistics.

Special thanks to Joe McKeown for spreading autism awareness.  As a legendary coach of a top team in the nation he has a remarkable opportunity to raise autism awareness. His dedication as an autism father is an example to others who have children with autism. We wish Joe McKeown continued success as an autism father and coach.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Tom Herrion

Autism Light #381 is Tom Herrion.

Tom Herrion is the Assistant Coach of the men's basketball team at Georgia Tech. He was born on November 13, 1967. Tom Herrion is also an Autism Father. His 9 year old son Robert has autism. Tom Herrion is an Autism Light for his willingness to use his role as an autism father and an assistant coach of a Division I NCAA basketball program to spread autism awareness.

Basketball Career: Tom Herrion played basketball in college for Merrimack College from 1985-1986. Tom Herrion was hired by Georgia Tech Coach Brian Gregory to be his assistant coach on September 18, 2014. He has 147 career wins as a head coach at College of Charleston and Marshall University. Follow the future success of his team at the Georgia Tech Men's Basketball Page.

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism: Tom Herrion and Pat Skerry started the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign in 2014. Both coach Herrion and Skerry have sons with autism. In 2014 they presented their fellow coaches across the NCAA with the request to wear the Autism Speaks blue puzzle piece during televised games the first weekend of February. In its first year (2014), "More than 82 NCAA coaches and broadcasters took to the sidelines and airwaves throughout the weekend wearing the pin (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism partners with Autism Speaks and funds raised benefit the work of Autism Speaks. The campaign was in place in 2015 for the televised games on the weekend of February 6-8, 2015. The Coaches Powering Forward for Autism fundraising page lists the coaching leaders in this autism awareness campaign in 2015. The top 3 coaches in 2015 in fundraising for autism as of March 23, 2015 are:

1. Coach Jim Fox, Appalachian State University
2. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University
3. Coach Mike Brey, Notre Dame University

Both Duke and Notre Dame have teams that are experiencing success on the court in the 2015 NCAA Final Four Tournament as well.

Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said, "There's so many good things that have happened for these youngsters, and so to help in some way is an easy thing to do. And Tom's a great guy, and so we'll participate in that, definitely, and feel proud and honored to do it  (Atlanta Constitution, February 5, 2015).

Liz Feld, president of Autism Speaks said, "Pat (Skerry) and Tom (Herrion) are advocates in every sense of the word. Last year's campaign was a true grassroots effort, and it continues to grow under the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism banner with far more coaches and broadcasters engaged. In addition, Pat and Tom have become great ambassadors for Autism Speaks attending events across the country that demonstrate the importance of participation and volunteerism (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

Here is a video of Tom Herrion giving a speech at an Autism Speaks event.

Other Information: You can read more about Tom Herrion and his work with autism in these online news stories:

• Georgia Tech Assistant Coach Driving Autism Awareness (Atlanta Constitution, February 5, 2015)
• GT Assistant Coach Tom Herrion's Belief Helped Create this Weekend's Coaches Powering Forward for Autism (Georgia Tech Sports, February 6, 2015)
• Coach with Son on the Spectrum Raising Autism Awareness (Autism Speaks, February 6, 2015)

Wikipedia: The Wikipedia Page for Tom Herrion has more information on his life and coaching career statistics.

Social Media: You can follow Tom Herrion on Twitter at @CoachTomHerrion.

Special thanks to Tom Herrion for spreading autism awareness. His leadership in Coaches Powering Forward for Autism has indeed had an impact around the United States. We wish Tom Herrion all the best in the future as an autism father, coach, and autism advocate.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Pat Skerry

Autism Light #380 is Pat Skerry.

Pat Skerry is the head coach of the men's basketball team at Towson University in Maryland. He was born on January 21, 1970. Pat Skerry is also an Autism Father. His 5 year old son Owen has autism. Pat Skerry is an Autism Light for his willingness to use his role as an autism father and coach of a Division I NCAA basketball program to spread autism awareness.

Basketball Career: Pat Skerry played college basketball at Tufts University from 1988-1992 and set the career record for assists (634) and the season record (198) at Tufts. Pat Skerry has served as the coach of Towson University Tigers' men's basketball team since the 2011-2012 season. He has 80 career wins as a head coach, including two years coaching at Curry College. Follow the future success of his team at the Towson Athletic Website.

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism: Pat Skerry and Tom Herrion started the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism campaign in 2014. Both coach Skerry and Herrion have sons with autism. In 2014 they presented their fellow coaches across the NCAA with the request to wear the Autism Speaks blue puzzle piece during televised games the first weekend of February. In its first year (2014), "More than 82 NCAA coaches and broadcasters took to the sidelines and airwaves throughout the weekend wearing the pin (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

Coaches Powering Forward for Autism partners with Autism Speaks and funds raised benefit the work of Autism Speaks. The campaign was in place in 2015 for the televised games on the weekend of February 6-8, 2015. The Coaches Powering Forward for Autism fundraising page lists the coaching leaders in this autism awareness campaign in 2015. The top 3 coaches in 2015 in fundraising for autism as of March 22, 2015 are:

1. Coach Jim Fox, Appalachian State University
2. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University
3. Coach Mike Brey, Notre Dame University

Both Duke and Notre Dame have teams that are experiencing success on the court in the 2015 NCAA Final Four Tournament as well.

Liz Feld, president of Autism Speaks said, "Pat (Skerry) and Tom (Herrion) are advocates in every sense of the word. Last year's campaign was a true grassroots effort, and it continues to grow under the Coaches Powering Forward for Autism banner with far more coaches and broadcasters engaged. In addition, Pat and Tom have become great ambassadors for Autism Speaks attending events across the country that demonstrate the importance of participation and volunteerism (Autism Speaks Press Release, January 15, 2015)."

The following is a news story on Pat Skerry's work with autism awareness at Towson University.

Other Information: You can read more about Pat Skerry and his work with autism in these online news stories:

• NCAA Basketball Coaches and Fans Team Up for Autism, January 15, 2015
• Towson University Coach Puts Spotlight on Autism, WBALTV.com, February 3, 2015
• Coach Shares Why He Wants to Spread Autism Awareness, February 4, 2015
• Towson Coach Pat Skerry Speaks About Autism, Baltimore Sun, February 6, 2015 (Video)

Wikipedia: The Wikipedia Page for Pat Skerry has more information on his life and coaching career statistics.

Social Media: You can follow Pat Skerry on Twitter at @CoachPatSkerry.

Hats off to #JMUDukes on a thrilling win and many thanks to all who came out to support #AutismAwareness @Towson_MBB
— Pat Skerry (@CoachPatSkerry) February 7, 2015

Special thanks to Pat Skerry for spreading autism awareness. His leadership in Coaches Powering Forward for Autism has indeed had an impact around the United States. We wish Pat Skerry all the best in the future as an autism father, coach, and autism advocate.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Carolina Panthers

Autism Light #362 is the Carolina Panthers. 

The Carolina Panthers are a football team in the National Football League located in Charlotte, North Carolina. They were organized on October 26, 1993 as an expansion team in the NFL.  The Carolina Panthers are an Autism Light because of their compassion towards people with autism. The Carolina Panthers are the first NFL team to be named an Autism Light and will be placed today on the Autism Light Sports page.

The Carolina Panthers played their first season in 1995. They reached Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004 and lost to the New England Patriots. At the time it was the most watched Super Bowl in history. The Carolina Panthers have many fans in the Carolina area and around the country, but two of their biggest fans have autism and the team has reached out to them.

Alphonzo "Fonz" McDonald:   Alphonzo is a 15 year old boy who has autism. He is such a big fan of the Carolina Panthers that his room is decorated in blue and black.  When asked what his sports dream would be, Fonz said, "I want to play wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers (MyFox8.com, Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers Make Dream Come True for Young Autistic Fan)!" 

On Saturday, October 25, 2014, Fonz got the opportunity to play wide receiver at a Carolina Panthers practice. He was then given a tailgate party, pregame field passes, and tickets for the game on October 26 when Carolina played the Seattle Seahawks. The Arc of North Carolina helped make the connection between Fonz and the Carolina Panthers. 

Here is a video of radio coverage of this special moment for a boy with autism.


Carolina Panthers Help Dream Come True for Autistic Boy from HIS Radio on Vimeo.

The following is a tweet on Twitter about Alphonzo McDonald meeting the Carolina Panthers. Fonz is the happy young man wearing the blue jersey.

#GoodDeeds: @panthers fan with #autism gets to meet players, catch pass from @CameronNewton http://t.co/HCe5zn7Qxf pic.twitter.com/hLHPAv2nNT
— Autism Society of NC (@AutismSocietyNC) November 2, 2014

Dave: .Dave is a young adult with autism. He is also known as Brother Dave. He is a huge Carolina Panthers fan. You can see a YouTube video where he reviews a game Carolina played against Green Bay in 2011. In 2011 the team gave Dave a signed football and tickets to a game. Here is a video of Dave receiving the gifts on behalf of the Carolina Panthers organization.



Light It Up Blue: In addition to their concern for individuals with autism the Carolina Panthers participated in a visible way in the community as the Bank of America Stadium where they play was displayed in blue lights for Autism Awareness Month in April, 2014.

Social Media:  To follow the Carolina Panthers on social media visit these pages.

• Facebook Page of Carolina Panthers
• Twitter @Panthers

For more information on the Carolina Panthers visit these links:

• Official NFL Website of Carolina Panthers
• Wikipedia Page of Carolina Panthers

Special thanks to the Carolina Panthers for shining a light on the cause autism through their autism awareness efforts.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Dwayne Ballen

Autism Light #360 is Dwayne Ballen. 

Dwayne Ballen is an autism father from Durham, North Carolina. He is the owner of Ballen Media and a journalist and sports announcer.  Dwayne Ballen wrote the book "Journey with Julian" about his lessons of raising a son with autism. Dwane Ballen is an Autism Light for how he spreads autism awareness through both his memoirs as an autism father and as he speaks to groups about autism.

Dwayne Ballen's book "Journey with Julian" is an account of a father observing the world through the eyes of his son growing up with autism. Dwayne Ballen said, "I watched the world through Julian's eyes, and it was a marvel. And at times, it was a heartache (WRAL.com, Father's Memoir Offers Lesson on Raising Son with Autism)."

Dwayne Ballen expresses how he feels as an autism father in this way, "People with special needs have much to offer us. I hope I'm a better person for having Julian. I hope I'm a better father. But one thing is certain, my life is better for having been Julian's father (Franklin Porter Graham Child Development Institute, April 23, 2014)."

Journey with Julian:  Dwayne Ballen's book "Journey with Julian" was released in April, 2013. You can read posts that eventually were put into the book at Dwayne Ballen's blog at journeywithjulian.com and order the book through Amazon. This is the video where Dwayne Ballen explains why he wrote his book "Journey with Julian."


Sports Announcer:  Garden District Book Shop in their promotion of "Journey with Julian" says, "Dwayne Ballen is a television journalist whose broadcast résumé includes CBS Sports, the ESPN networks, the Golf Channel, Fox Sports, USA Network and TNT's NBA Playoffs coverage. He has been a contributor to NPR and the Fox News Channel (Garden District Book Shop, May 17, 2013)."

More Information: The following articles highlight some of the ways in which Dwayne Ballen spreads autism awareness.

• Former Triangle sports anchor shares family's journey with autism | Health & Wellness | NewsObserver.com
• Father's memoir offers lessons on raising son with autism :: WRAL.com
• TV Journalist Dwayne Ballen to Deliver Keynote at the Inclusion Institute | FPG Child Development Institute

Here is a video of Dwayne Ballen being the color commentator for a past college basketball game.


Social Media: To learn more about Dwayne Ballen view his LinkedIn page.

Special thanks to Dwayne Ballen for raising autism awareness through giving the world his memoirs in "Journey with Julian". The perspective that Dwayne Ballen brings as an autism father is a gift to the autism community. We wish Dwayne and Julian all the best in the future.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Tiffany Alberts

Autism Light #314 is Tiffany Alberts.

Tiffany Alberts is a Special Needs Resource Teacher at Lakeview Middle School for the Warsaw Community Schools in Warsaw, Indiana. With her leadership she arranged for a 13 year old boy named Jacob Brock who has multiple disabilities, including autism and cerebral palsy, to have the opportunity to score a touchdown in a special Pink Out Football Game on September 10, 2013. Tiffany Alberts is an Autism Light for the joy she brought to Jacob Brock's life through setting up this opportunity for him. Autism Light also gives a special mention to the Warsaw Tigers football team who helped Tiffany Alberts create this special experience for Jacob.

Jacob Brock loves football and he had surgery last year to temporarily extend his ability to walk and run. Playing football, like so many young people do, will not be physically possible for Jacob. His teacher Tiffany Alberts arranged for Jacob to have the opportunity to score a touchdown in a game at his school.

Here is a video of Jacob Brock scoring the touchdown during the football game on Sept. 10, 2013.


You can also watch a video of a news story on ABC57.com when they covered Jacob Brock's first touchdown.

Tiffany Alberts said, “Jacob isn’t going to get the opportunity to run in a normal football game like a lot of typical kids can. I just thought it would be something he would really enjoy and remember. I just wanted him to have a shot (The Greatest Touchdown Ever Made, Stacey Page Online).”

Jacob's parents, Jeremy and Charity Brock appreciate the dedication of Tiffany Alberts toward their son. Charity Brock said, "She's just awesome! She knows he loves to play sport (The Greatest Touchdown Ever Made, Stacey Page Online).”

You can find out more about Tiffany Alberts and Jacob Brock's first touchdown in these online features.

• When a Touchdown Becomes a Homerun, Autism Speaks News Section
• Teen with Disabilities Scores His First Ever Touchdown, ABC57.com (VIDEO)
• The Greatest Touchdown Ever Made, Stacey Page Online

Special thanks to Tiffany Alberts for being an Autism Light. She is representative of the genuine commitment to go the second mile that many teachers put forth when working with their students with autism.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Los Angeles Dodgers

Autism Light #312 is the Los Angeles Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers are a Major League Baseball team based in Los Angeles, California. The organization started in 1883 in Brooklyn, New York and moved to Los Angeles in 1958. The Los Angeles Dodgers are an Autism Light for designating one of their home games as an autism awareness day game and for making a difference for cause of autism in the Los Angeles area.

2013 Autism Awareness Day: On August 14, 2013, the Los Angeles Dodgers held their 2nd Annual Autism Awareness Day at Dodger stadium for the game where the Dodgers hosted the New York Mets (Los Angeles Dodgers Host Autism Awareness Day). There was a special recogition of the autism community at the game and the Los Angeles Dodgers donated a portion of ticket sales to the Los Angeles chapter of Autism Speaks.

Holly Robinson-Peete (Autism Light #100) sang the National Anthem for this occasion and George Lopez threw out the first pitch. The game also provided the opportunity for the public to recognize Patrick Brady and some successful members of the Exceptional Minds vocational program (Autism Student Knocks It Out of the Park at Dodger Stadium, PRWEB, August 16, 2013). 
Here is a video of highlights from the those who were at the autism awareness game. 
Here is a tweet from Autism Speaks-Los Angeles after the event.

Thank you all for attending our 2nd Annual Autism Awareness Night at Dodger Stadium! Dodgers pulled it out and... http://t.co/YdnU1p79bV
— Autism Speaks - LA (@autismspeaksla) August 16, 2013

Stephanie's Day: The Los Angeles Dodgers also supported and participated in the 2013 Stephanies Day Resource Fair which was held on June 8, 2013 and sponsored by CBS LA (Dodgers Community Relations, Pitching in the Community, June 13, 2013). Autism father Steve Mauldin founded Stephanie's Day over 15 years ago and the event provides an excellent opportunity for families impacted by autism in the Greater Los Angeles area to receive important information on autism resources (A Proud Father Tells What His Daughter and Stephanies' Day Means to Him, CBS Los Angeles, July 11, 2012). 
History: The Los Angeles Dodgers have a long history of winning titles and they were the 2013 National League West Division Champions. Here is a video of some of the greatest moments in Los Angeles Dodgers history. 
You can learn more about the Los Angeles Dodgers on the Wikipedia Page of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Social Media: You can follow the Los Angeles Dodgers on the following social media.

• Los Angeles Dodgers Facebook Page
• Los Angeles Dodgers Twitter Account @Dodgers
• Los Angeles Dodgers Google+ Page

Special thanks to the Los Angeles Dodgers for being Autism Light and supporting autism awareness in the Los Angeles area. It is a tremendous gift to autism when a baseball club like the Los Angeles Dodgers bring their winning efforts on behalf of the cause of autism. We wish the Dodgers success in their ongoing efforts on and off the baseball field.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Jamie McMurray

Autism Light #310 is Jamie McMurray.

Jamie McMurray is a NASCAR Driver and has a niece who has autism. He who won both the Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 in 2010. Jamie McMurray was born on June 3, 1976, in Joplin, Missouri and lives in Mooresville, North Carolina today. For over 5 years Jamie McMurray has been promoting autism awareness through his position in NASCAR. Jamie McMurray is an Autism Light for being an autism uncle and for raising awareness and funds for autism for over a decade as a successful NASCAR driver.

NASCAR Record: Jamie McMurray holds the record for the quickest NASCAR start as he won the 2002 UAW-GM Quality 500 as a substitute driver in just his 2nd Career NASCAR start. Jamie McMurray won both the Daytona 500 and Brickyard 400 in 2010 and was only the 3rd driver in history to win both of these races in the same year. Jamie McMurray presently drives the No. 1 Chevrolet SS in the Sprint Cup Series for Earnhardt Ganassing Racing (Read More at Jamie McMurray's Wikipedia Page). The Yahoo Sports Page for Jamie McMurray has the career statistics for Jamie McMurray.

The following is a Public Service Announcement by Autism Speaks and the Ad Council that featured Jamie McMurray.

Jamie McMurray Foundation:  Jamie McMurray is the President of the Jamie McMurray Foundation that helps the autism community. The foundation lists this as their mission:

The Jamie McMurray Foundation (JMF) promotes awareness of, and raises funding for, the research, education, and support of inviduals and families afflicted with autism. JMF is dedicated to bringing the financial backing and support of the NASCAR community, together with the passion and commitment of the autism community, to promote better understanding of this challenging disability (Read More at the Jamie McMurray Foundation's Website).

You may support the Jamie McMurray Foundation by sending a check payable to the Jamie McMurray Foundation to P.O. Box 3460, Mooresville, North Carolina 28117-3460. You can also donate through the Jamie McMurray Foundation Donation Paypal Account. For charity requests or other information email info@jamiemcmurray.com.
The following is an interview with Jamie McMurray conducted back in 2008, when he shared about his passion for autism that inspired him to create the Jamie McMurray Foundation. 

Autism Speaks Day at the Races: Jamie McMurray was at the "Autism Speaks Day at the Races" in 2013. Jamie McMurray said about the event, "I enjoyed the chance to meet some of the families last year at this event. The whole weekend at Dover is great, with all the attention that it generates for autism awareness (Read More in an Article by Health Day on Jamie McMurray)." There is a YouTube video of Jamie talking to a young fan at the Autism Speaks Day at the Races. 
Drive for Autism Celebrity AM Golf Tournament: Jamie McMurray participates in the Drive for Autism Celebrity AM Golf Tournament, comprised of NASCAR drivers, some like Jamie who have personal family connections to autism. In 2013, $506,000 was raised for autism at the event. The next Drive for Autism will be on May 29, 2014 (Read More at the Drive for Autism on the Autism Delaware Website).
Social Media: You can follow Jamie McMurray at the following social media areas:

• Jamie McMurray's Facebook Page
• Jamie McMurray's Twitter @jamiemcmurray

Wikipedia: You can learn more about Jamie McMurray at Jamie McMurray's Wikipedia Page.

Special thanks to Jamie McMurray for being an Autism Light. We wish this Autism Uncle the best in his NASCAR races and for his continued advocacy on behalf of autism.

Note: This article is dedicated to my brother in-law, Eric Hostetler, who is both an autism uncle and NASCAR fan.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Ethan Fowlks

Autism Light #291 is Ethan Fowlks. 

Ethan Fowlks is a 6th grader with autism from Salt Lake City, Utah, who is a member of the Salt Lake Sidewinders' Under 12 Baseball team. Ethan Fowlks is an Autism Light because he is a very talented baseball player and is impacting the way people around him think of autism.

Here is a news story on a dramatic game that Ethan Fowlks had to help his team win the championship.



The Salt Lake Sidewinders' under 12 team were playing in a championship game in Cooperstown, New York on July 11, 2013. With his team trailing 2-0 in the 9th inning of the game against the Tallahassee, Florida Heat, Ethan Fowlks stepped up to bat and he hit a 3 run walk off home run to win the game for the Sidewinders. Thanks to Ethan's home run "the Sidewinders became the first Utah team to win a championship game at the Cooperstown Dreams Park in Cooperstown, New York, home of the Baseball Hall of Fame (Source)."

Ethan described his walk off home run as "Probably one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. Having to make history to make Utah proud (Source)."

Guy Fowlks said about his son's baseball talent, "When I started throwing pitches to him, his ability to track and hit the ball was extraordinary. It was impressive. The baseball field became the one place where he was more normal. Put him on the field and let him play the game, that's where he wants to be. It's his world (Source)."

Rob Jeppsen, Ethan's coach, said, "Baseball has been a big enabler for Ethan. He's remarkable. He plays ball, has a good time and sits in the dugout with his friends (Source)."

Special thanks to Ethan Fowlks for being an Autism Light. His talent as a baseball player is an inspiration to others with autism who are wanting to be involved in competitive sports.  Read the Autism Light Sports page to read more about other sports players with autism.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Luke Steibronn

Autism Light #273 is Luke Steibronn.

Luke Steibronn is from Waverly, Iowa. In the Summer of 2010 he played on the Waverly Twins baseball team in the Waverly Area Youth Baseball League.  Luke Steibronn is an Autism Light for the way his participation in his baseball team shined a light on autism for his teammates and community.
Luke practiced and played the game just like the other players did as a member of the team. His coach during the season was Noel McMillan and his mother Jennifer served as a scorekeeper and was supportive of Luke. Through the experience of playing in team sports, Luke was able to grow in his social skills as well as athletic talent and he helped his teammates grow in understanding of autism. 
Anelia K. Dimotrova developed this documentary on Luke Steibronn's 2010 baseball season called "BEHIND THE BAT: Boy shines light on autism for teammates". It chronicles how autism impacts Luke's life and how his life impacted his teammates. 
Luke Steibronn's mother Jennifer used the following acronym for his name to explain what Luke is like.  L ove U nderstanding K indness E nthusiasm
Special thanks to Luke Steinbronn for how he shined a light on autism for his teammates. This story demonstrates to others in the autism community the value that team sports can have for some individuals with autism when the proper supports are in place. We are honored to link this article with the Autism Light page featuring other amazing individuals with autism.  
Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

Myron Cope

Autism Light #262 is Myron Cope.

Courtesy of Autism Society of Pittsburgh

Beloved by fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers and honored by a grateful community where he lived his entire life, Myron Cope's last words were said five years ago, but his charitable legacy continues to give a voice to those, like his son Danny, who live in the silent world of autism. Born on January 23, 1929, and passing away on February 27, 2008, Myron Cope was preceded in death by his wife Mildred and was survived by a daughter Elizabeth and an autistic son Danny. Myron Cope is an Autism Light for supporting leading autism organizations in the Pittsburgh area and giving his son Danny a legacy through his humble support. Myron Cope will also be placed on the Autism Light Memorial Roll today.

The following is an Obituary on Myron Cope that aired on Pittsburgh's WTAE-TV after his death.

Sports Writer and Commentator: Myron Cope was best known for being the color commentator for the Pittsburgh Steelers for 35 years from 1970-2005. During his career he also was involved in other media ventures in the Pittsburgh area for sports enthusiasts. Myron Cope was also a sports writer in his early career and did a famous interview with Howard Cosell that is considered a Sports Illustrated Classic. You can still read the article on the Sports Illustrated Website.

Pro Football Hall of Fame: Myron Cope retired in 2005 and that year he received the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Pete Rozella Radio-Television Award (Source).

The following is a news story of Myron Cope's funeral service by WTAE-TV in 2005.

Terrible Towel: In 1975 during the Pittsburgh Steelers playoff run, Myron Cope created what is regarded as the first rally towel in sports. Called the Terrible Towel, the Pittsburgh Steeler's fan towel is black and gold and says "Myron Cope Official The Terrible Towel".  In 1996, Myron Cope signed over the rights for the Terrible Towel to the Alleghany Valley School, where his son Danny lives. Sales of the towel have generated over $3 Million dollars for the school.

Elizabeth Cope, Myron's daughter, believes that the Terrible Towel  is symbolic of much more than football and is a legacy to her autistic brother Danny. She said, "He's like the invisible face. He's the main man really behind the terrible towel. My dad is known for his voice and he has a son that doesn't speak, isn't able to speak and he's kind of given him an enormous voice (Source)."

Alleghany Valley School: Today about 900 children, adults, and senior adults with developmental disabilities, such as autism, are served by the Alleghany Valley School. More information on the school is available at their Website at http://avs.nhsonline.org.

After Myron Cope's death it was revealed that he had also quietly been donating millions of dollars to the Alleghany Valley School through his speaking engagements.  In 2008 the Alleghany Valley School's CEO Regis Davis told reporter Mike Wereschagin that whenever Myron Cope was paid to give a speech he would ask that the check be made payable to Allegheny Valley School or he would later sign it over himself to the school (Source). 

Regis Davis said, "This was his income...He never needed any notoriety, never wanted any attention brought to all this. Danny is the center of Myron's universe. He was completely dedicated to Danny, to his care, to his progress (Source)."

Autism Society of Pittsburgh: Myron Cope was one of a group of individuals who founded the Autism Society of Pittsburgh in 1967, helping them get their first grant for operations. He also served on their board of directors for many years. The mission statement of the Autism Society of Pittsburgh is this:

Since 1967, the Autism Society of Pittsburgh has been the local action unit of the Autism Society of America, the foremost voice and resource of the nation's autism community. We are comprised of volunteers, parents and professionals, working on behalf of all children and those of adult age on the autism spectrum. Our objective is to improve the lives of those with autism and related disorders of behavior and communication (Source).

For more details on the work and mission of the Autism Society of Pittsburgh visit their website at www.autismsocietypgh.org.

The Autism Society of Pittsburgh continues to benefit from those who wish to pay tribute to Myron Cope. One of the organization's key fundraisers is the Myron Cope/ Foge Fazio Memorial Golf Classic.  The 2013 event will be held on June 10, 2013. For more information on the 2013 event visit the golf tournament's section of the Autism Society of Pittsburgh's Website.

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix: Myron Cope is also responsible for founding the charitable Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix which had it's first race in 1983. Several million dollars of funds from the race over the decades have benefited both the Autism Society of Pittsburgh and Alleghany Valley School. More information on the event is available at their Wikipedia page.

Other Information: For more information on Myron Cope's life visit his Wikipedia page. You can also read his obituary published by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Through this post being placed with others on the blog today, Autism Light wishes to give a special shout out for Myron Cope. The legacy he left his son Danny and the support his name gives to the Alleghany Valley School and the Autism Society of Pittsburgh has made a tremendous difference for hundreds of people with autism in the Pittsburgh area. For the autism community, Myron Cope was much more than a dynamic hall of fame sports announcer. Myron Cope was like so many other autism fathers who quietly gave what resources he had at his disposal to make a difference for the cause that personally touched his own child. And what a difference he is making.

Autism Light honors diverse heroes to the world of autism.

The photo of Myron Cope was used with permission of Daniel Torisky and is credited to the Autism Society of Pittsburgh.