Discover How My Dad Empowered Me to Master My Autism Journey
Donald Trump’s Controversial Remarks Spark Debate Over Autism Origins and Treatment
Donald Trump’s recent comments linking Tylenol to autism have stirred significant controversy, shining a spotlight on the broader debate surrounding the condition’s origins and treatment. Amid the uproar, the everyday experiences of those living with autism often get overshadowed. Among these individuals is Leland Vittert, the chief Washington anchor for NewsNation, who has an inspiring story of overcoming the odds.
Leland Vittert’s Journey: From Bullying to Broadcasting
Leland Vittert, who previously spent over a decade at Fox News covering major conflicts in regions like Egypt, Israel, Libya, and Ukraine, faced a uniquely challenging path to success. Born in the 1980s with what is now identified as high-functioning autism, Vittert struggled for years to understand social cues and connect with his peers, often enduring intense bullying.
In a different family situation, Vittert might have been removed from mainstream schooling. However, his father chose a different path by focusing entirely on teaching him to adapt and thrive in the world. Vittert’s memoir, “Born Lucky,” which releases on September 30, details this journey and his father’s unwavering support.
Exclusive Insights from “Born Lucky”
El-Balad is thrilled to offer readers an exclusive excerpt from “Born Lucky,” highlighting the profound bond between a father and his son. This love letter reflects a child’s gratitude for never being given up on, despite the numerous challenges posed by his condition.
Understanding Autism: Past Misinterpretations
During Vittert’s childhood, experts struggled to classify his condition. Terms like Asperger’s and the concept of autism as a spectrum disorder weren’t well-known until the 1990s. At the time, his condition was vaguely diagnosed as “social blindness” or “pervasive developmental disorder,” offering little hope for improvement to his family.
IQ Testing and Misunderstandings
In fourth grade, Vittert underwent an IQ test that highlighted a significant 68-point spread between his verbal and nonverbal capacities. While he showcased brilliance on one end, outdated medical terms categorized him as mildly retarded on the other. This disparity underscored the gap between his intellectual strengths and social reasoning capabilities.
| Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Math and Science | Social Reasoning |
A Father’s Dedication: Going Beyond Standard Therapies
Today, children with similar challenges often receive specialized therapy and accommodations. However, Vittert’s father recognized that these external supports were insufficient for his son’s unique needs. Instead of relying on therapists, he dedicated himself to helping Vittert adapt to the world around him.
This unwavering dedication ensured that Vittert didn’t just survive but thrived, eventually becoming a revered broadcaster. His story is a testament to the profound impact of tailored, individual support over standardized solutions.
