Schools

Pearl River Middle School Student Speaks to Classmates About Autistic Brother

Fifth grader Wally Klein gave a speech about his 9-year-old brother Nicky over the loudspeaker at Pearl River Middle School as part of World Autism Awareness Day Tuesday.

Pearl River Middle School fifth grader Wally Klein acted as his younger brother Nicky's voice Tuesday.

Nicky Klein, 9, is autistic. For the third consecutive year, Wally Klein gave a speech to his entire school about his brother to help raise awareness of autism, this time at Pearl River Middle School. Before that, it was at Lincoln Ave. Elementary School. 

Students and staff at Pearl River Schools wore blue Tuesday as part of Light it Up Blue in recognition of World Autism Awareness Day. 

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The YouTube video of the speech is attached to this report. A copy of his speech is below. 

Hi my name is Wally Klein. I have a 9 year old brother named Nicky who has autism. Autism is a disability that makes certain things very hard such as making friends and communicating with others.

To help make things easier for Nicky, I always play with him and always try to include him in many of my daily and social activities.

Please do not judge children with Autism. They may seem different from us but they really aren’t that much different.They can learn, they can sing, they can play sports and much more. My brother is very smart and loves to learn new things.

I know it may be difficult or uncomfortable for some to communicate with autistic kids. But just remember that they are people just like you and Me and they would love to meet new friends .

Having a family member with autism has a lot of fun and happy moments. Nicky always has a smile on his face and he gives the best hugs. It does not take much to make my brother happy – a pat on the back, a funny comment or joke, a favorite song or just letting him hangout in my room. Nicky always seems to be happy.

There are also some sad times. It really bothers me when people stare at my brother like he's different or sometimes even laugh at his uncontrollable comments. I feel that this is disrespectful and is part of the reason why I chose to spread autism awareness. I hope one day people with autism or any disability will be treated with kindness and respect that they deserve.

When People ask me what its like to have an Autistic brother, I always answer, it's awesome!!!!

Nicky, I will continue to be your voice and you will always have my heart

Thanks Nicky for being my brother and my best friend!!

Wally Klein
5th grade

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