Central’s Own Olympic Champion

By Debbie Dougherty, Founder, Central City Autism Awareness
    Evan White is yet another outstanding, determined Central Athlete that has made his hometown so very proud.  Last week Evan participated in the Special Olympics here in Baton Rouge. Through sheer determination Evan convinced school officials that he was up to the task and ready to compete. Evan won that plea. 
    He and Coach Matt Bruce were front and center at the event being cheered on by Evan's very excited family. Not only did our Central boy go to the olympics, HE WON!  Evan won 1st place in the Softball Throw, 1st place in the Long Jump, and 2nd place in the 50 Meter Run.
    All of this is quite amazing in and of itself, but there are other factors to Evan's story that make it quite remarkable.  Evan was born 11 years ago with low muscle tone, his right leg was shorter than his left, and his knees turned slightly inward, causing the "knock knee effect." As Evan grew it was discovered that he had communication issues and was diagnosed with oral motor Apraxia, and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).   Yet this young man, through sheer determination, a very supportive family, and many, many prayers, has developed into an Olympic winner!
    But that's not where this story ends.  In third grade, Evan met his best buddy, Sam Siedel. Sam is confined to a wheelchair, and these two are inseperable. Compassionate hearts see no disabilities.  Sam's dad will be running in the Active for Autism race this Saturday, April 30.  Sam usually goes along as his dad pushes him as he runs.  This year Dan Siedel has asked Evan to do the honors and push his best buddy across the finish line! Evan graciously accepted the invitation and is looking forward to partnering with Sam and his dad.   Way to go, boys!
    You can see Sam, Evan, and Dan in the 7th annual Active for Autism race this Saturday at the State Police Headquarters on Independence Boulevard.  For more information about Active for Autism, visit www.fhfgbr.org.