You may have noticed many people wearing blue on Monday to show their support for World Autism Day. It’s a day to recognize and support all kids and adults who are on the spectrum. 

One Tampa Bay area girl uses her talents to break the negative stigma about autism.

In her blue dress and blue shoes, 18-year-old Stephanie Slagle celebrates World Autism Day by displaying her talents.

“There’s a quote by the person who pinned the condition, Hans Asperger, that really motivates me. ‘It seems that in order to succeed in the fields of science, math and art, a dash of autism is necessary,’” said Slagle.

Slagle has Asperger’s syndrome but it’s not something that runs her life. She’s loved music since she was 4 and just recently won a state level competition. She holds the title for Florida’s youngest soloist.

“They recognize that I have a lot of talent, but Asperger’s never really comes to mind or isn’t the first thing that comes to mind,” said Slagle.

Slagle performs at her school, at music festivals and will soon perform in the Florida Orchestra.

“It’s nice reminder that I needed a bit of help to get where I am today and I couldn’t have done what I am able to do without Autism Speaks,” said Slagle.

Slagle uses her talents to remind others that anything is possible.

“As people research more about autism, we start to lose the stereotypes. People see that there is more than one way to succeed,” said Slagle.

Slagle says she fits in just fine with whoever she is with, but life’s not always about fitting in.

“There’s always the times that I got to stand out, too!”

Slagle will sing the national anthem this summer at Tropicana Field when the Rays play the Blue Jays. 

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