Next spring the definition of Autism will officially change.
That means a large number of people with forms of Autism may not qualify for a diagnosis.
This will affect millions world wide including some in our own backyard.
"When I was a kid I would always tear paper, and now in the future, look at this," said Autism advocate Grant Manier.
Life hasn't always been a colorful art project for 17-year old Grant Manier.
At six-years-old Grant was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, which is a form of Autism.
"Inspiration comes from a lot of things, like for example there's my mom," said Manier.
But that inspiration only came after years of struggle and hard work.
"I cried in the shower many times wondering was I making the right choice," said Grant's mom Julie Coy-Manier.
Asperger's Syndrome is considered a high functioning form of Autism.
"They have so much potential and all it takes is finding that key to unlock it using the special interest or whatever it is that there good at," said Heart of Texas Autism Network President Anita Karney.
After years of support groups, doctor visits, and hours of research, Grant's mom finally found a way to help her son.
"I cut or tear the paper depending on what I'm making and I'm using Elmer's clear glue," said Grant Manier.
"Creating award winning eco-friendly artwork, Grant has turned his creations into a career," said Grant Manier.
"You see, I consider my Autism a gift, because look what I can do," said Grant Manier.
But after everything Grant has overcome, he and his family will soon face another mountain to climb.
"He will lose his health insurance, he will lose the benefits that he been waiting 13 years," said Julie Coy-Manier.
From housing to support groups, insurance that pays to assist people with Asperger's will be lost if the American Psychiatric Association dumps many classifications of Autism.
And if the APA decides to follow through with the changes, parents fear their kids could go without.
"There are many children on disability social security with Autism," said Julie Coy-Manier.
Grant is one of them.
For now, Grant's going to be optimistic and continue following his dream of becoming an artist.
"Well, really the future will tell. Maybe if something comes along I'll go with it, and maybe I'll continue this, actually I will continue this," said Grant Manier.
Always living by the quote, it's not what we can't do, it's what we can do.
To learn more about local Autism organizations click here:
To learn more about Grant Manier click here:
http://www.grantsecoart.com/
Http://hotautismnetwork.org/
