I love this kid's story. The video is sweet but it is more satisfying to read about it:
https://scoop.upworthy.com/lets-go-brandon-wholesome-spin-boy-autism-interprets-it-supportive-573274
Brandon Brundidge was diagnosed with autism when he was 3 years old. "His autism presents as social anxiety and he's very fearful of a lot of things—you know, like being around and talking to people," the now 9-year-old's mom, Sheletta Brundidge, told TODAY Parents. "And he stutters, so he will talk with his hand over his mouth—he thinks that he can catch the stutters as they come out." Two of Brandon's three siblings also have been diagnosed with autism and since flying presents a challenge to the kids, the Minnesota-based family prefers to go on vacations in their RV, driving to various states with attractions that are autism-friendly.
It was during one such trip to Houston, Texas, in March 2022, that Brandon first came across the phrase used by Donald Trump supporters to show their dislike for President Joe Biden: "Let's go, Brandon." While attending Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Brundidge noticed that her usually shy and anxious son had suddenly begun acting uncharacteristically outgoing. "We were in an RV park and my son kept saying, 'Mom, these people here love me!' And I was like, 'Boy, what are you talking about?'" the 40-year-old recalled. "And he said, 'They got my signs up everywhere! They were waiting for me to get here!' I just saw this sudden confidence come over him." [more]
https://edition.cnn.com/2022/07/17/us/lets-go-brandon-brundidge-nascar-book-good-news-cec/index.html
Sheletta Brundidge has a keen eye for little miracles. Whether it’s faith or gratitude, she knows not to look away when life shows you something special.
That’s how an innocent misunderstanding by her son became a viral children’s book, which led to a meaningful friendship with one of NASCAR’s top drivers. Together, they’re turning a hurtful phrase into something positive. [snip]
The book attracted the attention of President Joe Biden, who sent Brandon a letter of admiration. It also reached Brown, the NASCAR driver who unwittingly helped spawn the “Let’s Go Brandon” craze. Brown had been publicly ambivalent about the phrase, but was struggling to keep sponsors in light of its polarizing nature.
Brown’s team reached out to the Brundidges and invited them to an upcoming Xfinity Series race. Within a week, the family was at Wisconsin’s Road America racetrack, taking in the event as VIPs. Brown even had the cover of Brundidge’s book splashed across the hood of his Camaro. [more]
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