At VBA we encourage all types of learning to ensure children are understanding to their maximum potential. We recognize that every person learns differently, has a unique voice, and brings value to the world around them in their own way.
Our philosophy encourages everyone to shoot for the stars and maximize their potential. And we see people like actress Daryl Hannah as wonderful examples of how to live a full and happy life on the spectrum.
Many moviegoers know Daryl to be a fun-loving American actress who’s starred in movies like Splash, Blade Runner, and Wall Street, as well as having a recurring role in the Kill Bill series. Her newest works (American Connection, The Now) are expected to hit movie theaters and television screens, respectively, in 2021.
These days Daryl’s used to having all eyes on her, but for years she was uncomfortable at the very idea of being the focus of attention. Diagnosed with ASD at age 5, Daryl explains “My shyness was probably made worse because of my condition. I’d come home from school and cry myself to sleep. Right from an early age, I’d rock myself back and forth because it helped calm me down.”
In fact Daryl’s entire school career was a struggle. “I was tall, stick-thin skinny and kind of goofy looking and not very communicative. Everybody at school picked on me because I was different – I had white hair and a boy’s name.” These challenges were compounded daily by the impact she felt from autism.
Daryl eventually came to recognize “I wasted too much time being scared, self-conscious and insecure.” Her conclusion: “Life is too short to stress the small things anymore.”
This decision to not let being on the spectrum dictate her life enabled her to take control, allowed her to pursue her dream of acting (95 film credits and counting), and to find the peace and happiness we all deserve.
It’s a step we at VBA believe everyone is entitled to take. We’re here to help.