Former Michigan State player appointed to state’s Autism Council
July 25, 2012 in Division I
Former Michigan State basketball walk-on Anthony Ianni has an interesting new role now that his playing days are over. From Stephen Brooks of The State News:
That all changed earlier this month when he was appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to the state’s newly created Michigan Autism Council. After speaking at various schools and events around the state since graduating in the spring, he believes he has found his true calling in social work.
“I want to make a difference in people’s lives, and I want to be able to be that hope and inspiration that people can look at, not just around the state but the nation as well,” Anthony said.
At the age of five, Anthony was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. According to medical reference website WedMD.com, autism spectrum disorders affect between two and six children in every 1,000 in the U.S., and the disorders affect three different areas of a kid’s life: social interaction, verbal or nonverbal communication and behaviors or interests.
His parents were told that he’d never be able to develop into an athlete, never be able to attend a traditional university and would likely have to live in a group home at some point.
Ianni has an inspiring story and it’s great to see that he’ll continue to use his life to help make an impact on others.