Ariza

NBA-centric human interest stories usually tend to be repetitive. It’s not that I don’t care about the struggles that individual people had to go through in their lives, and I definitely don’t want to suggest that tales of overcoming the hurdles of socioeconoimic decay have become cliche’, but there is a commonality running through many of the most oft-heard backstories of those populating the NBA (and the NFL, for that matter). The Chris Anderson and Trevor Ariza stories that have resonated recently have both been interesting but, with all due respect to those guys and what they have overcome, Gina Marie Incandela has become by far the human interest star of the 2009 Playoffs.

I encourage you to read her story in full. Here’s an excerpt.

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.

Fortunately, she was able to find some good doctors and start getting some therapy to help her adjust. And, in time, she was able to figure out her own way to operate as someone whose brain operates differently than most other people in society.

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 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.

Wonderful things indeed. Until last night, the Magic were 7-0 during this year’s Playoffs when Gina Marie sang the National Anthem before a game. Unfortunately, that streak was broken last night. But while that’s a cool little factoid that helped give her story additional exposure, actually getting to hear her sing is what makes this such a good story. And, even greater than that, is getting to watch the happiness on this seven-year-old’s face while she patriotically takes everyone in the arena to church.

Known Associates: Ariza, Birdman, Gina Marie Incandela, Magic

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