No longer silent.
This is my daughter's story...
Gina Marie Incandela is seven years old. She attends first grade in sunny Florida. On the average day she can be found running, jumping, playing, talking with her many friends at school and learning as much as she can. She loves to learn new things. She also sings and plays the piano. Gina was an accomplished vocalist by age 6. But, that's not the amazing part of this story.
Gina has autism.
When Gina was just 2 years old she was diagnosed with PDD NOS (an autistic spectrum disorder). The pervasive development disorder diagnosis was a result of evaluations sought because Gina could not speak at age 2. In fact, Gina did not really start speaking any words until after age 3.
In addition to a speech and language delay, she had many other developmental delays. She did not have age appropriate social skills. She had poor eye contact, sensory issues, and feeding issues among others. She had difficulty transitioning and did not adapt well to new environments. She was often afraid in public and could not tolerate noisy places such as theme parks or carnivals. She had odd behaviors such as scratching the floors and walls and stacking her toys instead of playing with them. She had no imaginary play skills. When she went to a playground, she showed no interest in other children. She would simply pick up sticks and rocks.
The doctors that diagnosed her were unable to state whether her condition would improve or worsen. They were unable to tell us whether she would ever be able to speak. Their advice was to enroll her in a specialized program as quickly as possible to give her the best chance to overcome her disabilities. She attended UCP of Central Florida's Osceola Center in Kissimmee Florida in a full time day program starting at around age 2.
Unfortunately many families are sharing the experience of such a diagnosis more frequently every day. Gina received various therapies including, occupation, speech and language and behavioral. She is now in a “regular†first grade class at a private school. She still receives therapy at school and at home but, continues to thrive and advance.
Gina has worked very hard over the past few years to reach every goal set for her. Part of her therapy included music. When Gina started singing it was clear she had a gift. The more Gina sang, the more her speech improved. Now, this beautiful child that once could not speak, is singing our Country’s National Anthem for several major events. When Gina sings the National Anthem, it deeply touches those who hear her.
She still works hard every day to function in a world which she perceives much differently than most. But, she gives every day her best efforts. She never gives up and she is a shining example of what children with disabilities are capable of when they are given the tools they need to succeed. This precious little girl gives so much of herself. She uses her beautiful voice to help others by performing at several charity events. She loves to receive praise from others and equally loves to praise others. At such a young age she has come to appreciate the true joy of giving. Whether sharing her toys, or sharing her voice Gina is a generous, giving person.
This little girl has come so far in such a short period of time. If you met her today you might not suspect that she has ANY kind of disability whatsoever!! She is an amazing individual. She has surpassed everyone’s expectations for her. Many families that receive a similar diagnosis are struck with fear and react with denial. They are overwhelmed with the feeling that their child will never achieve the same goals as other children. Well, Gina is an example that these children are capable of wonderful things. Gina has gracefully walked through every door that has been opened for her through early intervention. It is my hope that others will hear her story so that their children may follow through those doors to reach their own goals and fulfill their own dreams.
Gina's singing career started with an audition for the Houston Astros spring training game on January 26, 2008. As a result of that audition tape and the subsequent performances which stemmed from that tape, Gina's performances have been in demand ever since. She has already achieved a level of success that was beyond all our wildest imaginations. We are thankful to those of you who have already purchased Gina's first CD single. Written just for Gina by songwriter/producer Thomas Michael Dale, "I Dare To Dream" is an inspirational song that captures the essence of this darling girl. It's incredibly beautiful and we are so happy to share it with all of you. Gina is very proud of "her song" and worked very hard but, also had lots of fun in the studio. We, of course, are very proud of her and will always remain thankful every time we hear her voice. We hope you love the song as much as we do and appreciate your supporting Gina's dreams.
This little girl is my inspiration, my daughter, my hero and I thank you for all your continued support. Your comments and messages are deeply appreciated. Please keep them coming!
