Gina

This is Gina’s story.

Gina Marie Incandela is seven years old. She attends second grade at a private school in Kissimmee, 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.

When Gina was about 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 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 the UCP Charter School in Osceola County 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, occupational, speech and language and behavioral. She is now in a “regular” 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. Now, this beautiful child that once could not speak, has established herself as an up and coming vocal star. She has performed the National Anthem at major events around the Country including the 2008 and 2009 US Open Tennis Championships, NBA, MLB and NHL season games including three internationally broadcast games during the NBA FInals and numerous television and radio shows. She is also no stranger to a recording studio. At the age of 6, Gina released her first CD single entitled “I Dare To Dream”. Written just for Gina by songwriter/producer Thomas Michael Dale, “I Dare To Dream” is an inspirational ballad that sends a message of hope.

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 little girl has come so far in such a short period of time. When people meet Gina today they focus on her abilities, not her disabilities. 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.
She is a perfect example that there is always hope and people can and do defy the odds. This little girl is my inspiration, my daughter, my hero.

You can read more about Gina, see performances and hear her sing at www.myspace.com/GinaMarieIncandela

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