Teen with autism becomes advocate

By Staff Writer

At two years old, Taylor Morris was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and her mother was told that her daughter might never talk, or leave home. However, fifteen years later, Morris is dispensing hope to other autistic children and their families, The Capital reports.

Through her online videos and advocacy, the 17-year-old high school senior is describing the ways in which the diagnosis has shaped her experiences, as well as how she copes with everyday life.

Morris, who is a member of the International Baccalaureate program, National Honor Society and track team, wants to be a chemist and is in the process of deciding where to apply to college. She's also continuing a personal video blog and website she began last winter, as well as doing work that includes public speaking and involvement in two autism-awareness fashion shows, the news source reports.

The teen was recently selected as a collegiate spokesperson for the Autism Women's Network, which entails posting more video blogs about everything from the application process to her time on campus once she begins school.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that an average of one in 110 children in the U.S. have an ASD.