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have handed them on to Keaton. The family was always watching for his “genius” of autism; we were aware that high functioning autistic people might excel in music, science, math, etc. Keaton was capable in these areas, but his unique acceleration would be evident to us and to others a few years later. He performed in the school talent show, playing the piano. The cafeteria ladies and staff stood in the back of the auditorium. Some of them cried and others cheered to see Keaton on the stage and enjoying himself. He stood to take a formal bow at the conclusion of his selection. The bow was an action he had been taught by his piano teacher. Interestingly enough, Keaton performed a second time in a piano recital that day; the recital took place at our Methodist Church. The final assembly for the eighth grade students was attended by both his parents and his grandparents. We were proud of his recognition as a straight “A” student, and for his perfect attendance. It was a relief to Keaton and to all of those closely related to him that the middle school years came to an end, not with a loud bang, just with a small sigh!

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