Tribute to Matthew Ross

TRIBUTE TO MATTHEW ROSS

Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. President, I rise to commend an outstanding young Floridian. Matthew Ross is an 11-year-old who has overcome tough circumstances and has succeeded. He recently won the prestigious national award, the Temple Grandin Award, for achievement in autism, became the first autistic child to serve as a page in the Florida House of Representatives and won the Special Olympics District Tournament Golfing Regionals in his area. What a year.

I had the privilege of meeting Matt recently. I was impressed by his polite demeanor and his interest in special education issues.

A little over a year ago, Matt was in special education classes because by his own words, he had "trouble with the way my brain processes information." He had been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and, earlier, his mother had even considered placing him in a group home. But, now just some 12-13 months later he has blossomed. He is no longer in special education classes, and as I understand it has political aspirations. I give high praise to his mother, Susan Ross, who has steadfastly stood by Matt and made it possible for him to succeed.

I wish Matt all the luck and blessings in the world. Keep it up, Matt.