Marty Murphy Speaks about Autism

[VickyGoss]

Great!

[MegaJared2]

I hate it when people make fun of people with autism!

[sniffymo]

Just saw Marty speak and I would say it was the most wonderful thing that has happened in our journey so far.

[LorrettaW]

You are awesome. I have fought my Aspergers DX for a long time. You are truly an inspiration..

[splashypuddle]

Marty you are a remarkable woman. Would love to cross the river of autism back and forth a thousand times with you!

[sukarita666]

she's brilliant and hilarious :)

[antiautism]

FAT FUCK

[csicifan]

Hey anti-autism we are not that stupid. You are an obvious troll and of course, you proudly admit it. What you say is irrelevant. Sad revolting pathetic little troll with no life. Get lost you loser!

[antiautism]

FAT FUCK

[SuperPopa81]

Marty! You are the best, it was a real pleasure watching this video, you have a great sense of humor!

[auti34]

omg she so funny .i have autism to

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for writing in. Positive comments are always welcome.  It takes bravery to put yourself on the web, and Marty has agreed to do it only if it helps others. So, again, thanks for your support and positive words of encouragement.

[PBRAILEY]

I LIKE IT SHES FUNNY JUST LIKE ME

[wendme]

i loved this so much, and you put alot of hope in me, and gave me more undersanding, you were great, i loved it, keep it up

[marykate53511]

Also don't forget music is a good therapy.

[marykate53511]

This is a great video. I loved it. Keep up the good work :)

[blackwhitepaints]

Very enlightening.

[momofzachandabi]

I have had the pleasure of being at two of your talks. one in peoria and one in Galesburg. I help with an autism group in Galesburg and would love to have you come talk but cannot find a way to contact you. I have a 6 1/2 year old son with autism. I love him soooo much I just wish everyone could see the beautiful child he is thankyou for all you do and everyone you reach.

[juliebcr]

great video.

[kjfga3]

Marty-

I was amazed by your video! I too, grew up in Normal. I will love to have the opportunity to here you speak. You have a way of enlightening people. You are a truely amazing person

[five2forget]

Marty,

Thanks for coming to speak with us at autism services last night. It was great meeting you in person finally!

[jypsylove]

Dear Marty,

I loved this video. It made me laugh and enlightened me to a reality that is now a part of my family. It has helped me understand autism so much better and it has also given me hope. Thank you for your honesty and your humor. I think everyone in the world could benefit from hearing your message.

[Kroxicon]

she has a great voise and i bet she has easy talking to people... i could listing for hrs

Peace!

[vuong75]

I don't recalled you were this funny, but I do enjoyed the video. In case u didn't remember me, I am used to worked with you at AFNI's recovery support department.LHW

[magicalmiriam]

It was fantastic to see this, i can relate to many of the things you said.

[GfxDesigner]

I live in bloomington IL :)

[magemystic]

haha Im sure my brothers (all 3 of them are autistic) would love to invest in kissing therapy. I love your homor. I sent this video to my oldest brother beccause he loves comedy and he has quit an odd sense of humor himself.

[monicasuetannehill]

Marty, you are so amazing. So amazing. What a gift!

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for the words of support. I'll be sure to pass this on to Marty!

[colenave]

Yes! Ben and Alex!! Ben is the most talented puppetier(sp?) ever! And Alex does AMAZING math. One time in class, we were seeing how good Alex could do the day of the week thing, and we were like, 'august 5th, 1735!' and alex sat there thinking for about 15 or 20 seconds and then he was like, 'It was a Tuesday' and everyone started clapping and alex got a big smile on his face.

[grahamstreeter]

Go Ben and Alex! Big hug!

[leoleponge]

"A bunch of fives", loved this video, great job!

Marty is hilarious!

[nowhining4u]

Loved it...I hope many more people get to see it..

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks Nowhining4u! One love.

[monicasuetannehill]

please, how can I get her to come to our area?

(CARD Center, Gainseville, Florida, University of Florida)PLEASE!

[pizzap09]

i'm gonna be in a autism movie thats due out in 08 and i'm a future autism speaker.

[roundwoundhippo]

GREAT video! Thanks to Marty & Graham for furthering the message of hope. A message not often understood in the realm of autism.

[baileyaiden]

I think what you are doing Marty is great. I wish more autistics would try as hard as you do. I have a son who is autistc and I hope that he to will do as good as you.

[Poormedievalboy]

I have seen Marty and heard her speak. It was the greatest use of any hour of my life. The skeptics and naysayers be damned. Full speed ahead Marty. I have been to comedy shows that were not as funny and lectures not as informative. Marty has both.

[mom2rnr]

I completely agree! Marty, you are amazing! I love how you are so comfortable with what God dealt you. You realize you may need help sometimes, but thrive on your own personal acheivements. Good for you. I have an 8 year old daughter with Autism and pray that she will get to where you are when she reaches adulthood. You are an inspiration! Thanks!

[NFHandler]

Marty

I loved your video and your humor. BTW, I have a brother named Marty who is autistic.

[sfdees]

I have seen Marty overcome great obstacles inthe past five years and she gives me great hope as a parent of a child with autism. I am saddened that there are those who feel so passionate about calling Marty a fraud, as I know and believe that she is one of the most amazing women I have ever had the pleasure to know; she, without a doubt, is slowly helping to make the world a more friendly and positive place for both my children who have grown up knowing and loving Marty.

[chelbell31]

I will vouch for any doubters that Marty is inf act a real person with feelings. She is wonderful woman and my son, Nathan, also with high funtioning autism thinks she is wonderful too. If you have ever seen hr speak she is the real deal.

[mkob62]

If you know Marty, you know she's real and awesome! She has done so much for the kids in our community by being willing to share her experiences, to put words to emotions and actions that many of us can't explain due to the lack of her "first hand" knowledge. She's opened so many eyes to see how "normal" and wonderful our kids are - something we've always known but have trouble getting an intolerant public to understand. Thanks Graham for putting her out there for more people to learn from!

[cardaronella]

Marty rocks! When God spoke to Moses through the burning bush, Moses obeyed. When God spoke to Marty through parents like me who urged her to use her God-given talents to raise the awareness & understanding of autism, she obeyed. Is Marty not allowed to possess such talents because she's autistic? The world is now richer because deaf, blind, paraplegic, or otherwise "different" folks are using theirs. Marty, pray hard, tuck in, & journey forward. Don't let the "desert winds" get you down.

[jabberjaws46]

I seen Marty do a presentation a few years ago. I was very impressed with her then and I still am today. It gives me an insight to my son's life. Thanks to people like Marty and Temple Grandin (sorry if I spelled it wrong). They are my inspiration to keep going knowing that people with Autism are always changing and learning. THANK YOU MARTY FOR ALL YOU DO.

[cyndeedean]

I'm a school psychologist who has had the opportunity to participate in several workshops with Marty. Her message provides insights to professionals and hope to parents. She teaches teachers to be more effective in their strategies. She manages to humanize Autism as only a person on the spectrum can do.

[grahamstreeter]

Dear triark and cyndeedean, Thanks for writing in and sharing the video with others. Good words based on first-hand expereience go a long way!

[trlark]

It is amazing to see Marty in this video. I casually have met Marty through the local Autism Society. She writes the most insightful, beautiful, and truthful commentaries about her and others'journeys with this disorder. If you see Marty in community activities, there is no doubt that Marty speaks with the authority of one who knows exactly what autism is and does to a person and family.

[roozhan]

I absloutly loved her video. This video as much as make me laugh it brough tear into my eyes. She gave me differen view of the world of autsim and answered lots of my question about my own son who is autstic.

She brought lots of understanding and hope to our community. I wish her all the best. Keep up the good work. Your are the hope for all the family that have autistic children.

[grahamstreeter]

Dear mgabdellis1 and roozhan, Thanks for posting such kind words!

[mgabdellis1]

Marty has made a difference in my life. She has let me see that people with autism live productive and meaningful lives. My son was diagnosed two years ago and I have to say that Marty gives me hope for my own son. Marty you are on of those few people who really makes a difference in the lives of many people. Thank you for that.

[grahamstreeter]

Hey everyone! If you're interested, check out this clarifying message from Marty Murphy as she addresses some urban myths about her family, her self, and her views on autism.

Go to the official "NORMALFOLK" movie website, and click on the "HOW" section. Her entry is titled "MAKE A DIFFERENCE". Enjoy, and thanks again for all your support. :)

[whitequeen96]

My 10 yr. old son has autism, and he is a very special, unique little guy. Although he struggles with some challenges and is not completely "normal", he's BETTER than "normal" in so many ways! And he is unusually empathetic! As my friend says, "Once you've seen one autistic kid, you've seen .... one autistic kid." Everyone is different and special in their own way.

[grahamstreeter]

Well said! Thanks for sharing. :)

[melymelschwab]

I am so impressed with her, her humor and delivery were super funny, thought provoking and informative. I was especially fond of her description of laying in the bottom of the pool - it stuck with me all day, it sounds very soothing

[jazzobassoon]

very inteligent .but autist and in FRANCE no places for autist my soon is 16 old best regards

[lhwilley]

Marty Murphy made me laugh and she made me think... why can't more people be like her? I too have Asperger syndrome as does my father. He likes to say, "We with AS have to get a better press agent." He's right. Marty should be our press agent and Graham Streeter our manager. This video they've created does a beautiful job of showing the world that people with AS are treasures to behold and befriend. Thanks to them both. Liane Holliday Willey

[grahamstreeter]

A few people have asked "Is Normal Folk a story true? Is it based on Marty Murphy's life?" For the record, the answer is No. "Normal Folk" is NOT a true story. Like most feature screenplays, it is a totally fictitious piece of work. It is a story that was fabricated in my head over 3 years ago. For many other questions answered, visit the website NormalFolk. Go to the "How" section. I posted many answers there. :)

[ylrebmikaka]

This is not the story of every person w/autism but its one piece of the puzzle. To quantify the numbers of puzzle pieces to complete the autism spectrum puzzle is completely obscured to everyone trying to understand the complexity of autism. Take this for what it is worth and the potential impact it may have on just one person's life.

[grahamstreeter]

Dear yirebmikaka, Bravo! You said it perfectly. This is also why I love YouTube so much...It gives the world so much content about everything in life! Every day is a learning experience and day by day we can become smarter beings...but it requires the curiousity of an open mind, sifted through logic and sorted by virtues. -Graham

[ylrebmikaka]

It is our responsibility to use this video and other materials created by individuals w/autism as tools to help society understand the impact of autism in "one" persons life & what they can do to make a difference. Much like Rainman--not everyone w/autism is Rainman, nor is everyone an autistic savant w/incredible musical talent. These individuals are just pieces to the puzzle. Marty is verbal & tells her story, the way she see's it, the way it has impacted her life.

[ylrebmikaka]

She brings to the table "one side-her side", breaking down the barriers through her humor & ability to articulate in ways some people can understand & begin to relate. In this video as with all of her speaking engagements; she takes the fear of autism out & shows the viewer or participant the potential everyone with disabilities has, not just those with autism. I always say she makes autism approachable & not something people need to fear or isolate themselves from. It's inspirational.

[mirai108]

Who ISN'T "different" in some way? We need to view each other individually, and learn to not only accept each other's differences, but appreciate them too.

[jaqsm]

Wonderfully said Mirai108!

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks mirai108. Well said. Thanks for the open mind. :)

[mirai108]

To those negative comments below, I think it is important to remember what Marty says in the video "Not everyone. We're all different."

This is just a great example of how we need to accept, empathize, and love people as individuals, not as one of a group. Marty is an individual working to educate people on HER experience with autism, not the entire autistic community's experience with a condition.

[mirai108]

Marty is so funny and such a delight to watch. She is so entertaining, that the education part comes naturally and easily while absorbing and enjoying her personality and spirit. It just makes me want to watch her more!

[grahamstreeter]

Dear Christschool, Thank you for the comments. I will be sure to direct those who share in your views toward your site. -Graham

[Greyandblackpuppy]

As grahamstreeter seems to want this to be positive "feel the love". I will not comment anymore except to say awesome video and I will not respond to anymore hyperbole from christschool. He is dismissable by those of us working for true change in the autism community.

[Greyandblackpuppy]

So in answer to the question are autistics posting here the answer is yes and yes I would like to see your official diagnosis because I would guess you are one of the deluded self diagnosed.

[Greyandblackpuppy]

From you own videos you hold yourself up as being the voice of the community. You are not. Marty is not. You give your own viewpoints. Using labels like NT's is not helpful

[Greyandblackpuppy]

No christschool I will join those who simply think you are a nut and dismiss what you say. I have Aspergers and have a child with autism. Both diagnosed. Marty's message is a positive one.

[christschool]

Grey, your correct, autistics have heard Marty speak. So far, you've called me a nut and vile and asked to see my medical papers. Any other perjoratives you wish to throw at me? Marty has a great knack for making NT's feel comfortable in their misconceptions of us. Your comment is just but one example of what autistic advocates face everyday. By the way, there is no community without us and for us and by us.

[Thangordorim]

Explain exactly how it is that she makes "NT's feel comfortable in their misconceptions of us."

Which misconceptions exactly?

[grahamstreeter]

One Love :)

[CaptainOlimar]

Is it because she takes medication? I'm just trying to understand.

[CaptainOlimar]

my question is regarding why not many autistics are commenting.

[grahamstreeter]

Dear CaptianOlimar, Amonst the comments, I am not sure who is autistic, and who not. The video is here for eveyrone to enjoy.

[jeremiah1129]

Thank you so much for this presentation those of us w/ autistic children need this kind of hope.

[christschool]

Marty knows and Graham knows why.

[grahamstreeter]

Dear Greyandblackpuppy, Yes, we are all trying to help...in our own unique way. Thank you for your positive support. -Graham

[ForrestG]

Marty is always great to hear. I will be sure my son looks at this since he has an autistic son. Very motivational.

[monroe6126]

Graham, thanks for helping us to build more of an awareness on autism. Marty is simply amazing - I am thrilled you have had the opportunity to get to know her. Watching this made me cry all over again.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks. Be sure to check out the film project information. Just Google "Normalfolk".

[halehn]

What a delightful person and presentation. Marty is great and has a fabulous sense of humor. She debunks the assumption that autistic individual don't have theory of mind. I loved her presence. Thank you

[grahamstreeter]

You are welcome! The video doesn't even begin to show how great this woman is!

[Jacquiemace]

Awesome Job Graham. You have captured the essence of Marty and given me a reminder of how far she has come. Marty is without a doubt one of the most inspiring people I've ever met! Thank-you for sharng a piece of her message with others.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for watching. Check out the main web site "normalfolk" for more on the project she is working on with me.

[GoodFunk]

Marty is FABULOUS! Thank you so much for sharing this!!

[grahamstreeter]

My pleasure. Thanks for supporting the "Normalfolk" film project!

[simplytroy]

Marty gives me hope that my 8-yr-old son on the spectrum will succeed despite his disabilities. He's already come so far!! Great job Marty.

Troy in Heyworth IL

[grahamstreeter]

Dear Troy, I'm glad you got to see the video. My best to you and your son! -Graham

[jamagil]

I accidently rated it 2 stars....meant to rate it 5!! It was awesome...very inspiring...funny! Made my day! Way to go Marty!

[mgabdellis1]

I have had the privlege of listening to Marty Murphy speak twice. I think her sense of humor is second to none. She is an inspiration to us all.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for all your support. Be sure to check out the web page for Marty and her help in the project "Normal Folk", a feature film that will shoot in Normal Ill.

[rainydog]

I posted this on my web site in livedigital and I also posted your link to the video here on youtube and the link works. I sent it to the Social Work dept Southern Ill Univesity.

[grahamstreeter]

Excellent! Post away. Haha. Be sure to let people know there is a full website that explains more about Marty and her involvement in the feature film "Normal Folk" that will shoot in Normal Illinois. Again, thaks so much for all your support!

[rainydog]

Excellent inspiring video. I want to post it in my livedigital site. I've sent it out to teachers and social Work professors and therapists. The best nine minutes and forty six seconds I've had today.

[gotmybabyboo]

She is FABULOUS!!! Hysterical! Inspiring!!! WOW~~!!!! What an incredible spokesperson for autism!

[grahamstreeter]

I agree. Thanks for the comment.

[javajunkie80]

Wow...my daughter sounds so similar to her. What an amazing person; it's so easy to see how she can inspire understanding in others.

[grahamstreeter]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for your support!

[redhead60707]

Thank you! Very inspiring!

IL fan

[grahamstreeter]

Illinois folk are so awesome. I should be thanking YOU!

[littlebobleep]

So great! Bravo! I'm passing this on.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for the support. Thanks for passing it on. I hope it's an inspiration for many!

[MamaKatsm]

I LOVE this! Thank You.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for taking the time to view it. It means a lot to us!

[NorwayMom]

What a great teacher/entertainer. I was spellbound.

[grahamstreeter]

I agree. Thanks for the comment. I hope you pass it on~!

[parhal]

Very nice. It's excititing to know about Marty Murphy. thanks for sharing. Well done video.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for following along. There's a ton more on Marty Murphy at "normalfolk" a website for the feature film.

[racham1]

SUPERB! Now this is what I'm talking about!

[grahamstreeter]

Hey. Thanks for the comments. I really loved watching your videos too.  Keep up the good work!

[Zuliechiq]

Totally wonderful video !! Loved it ! :)

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks so much! I hope you pass it on. :)

[ablheza]

Thanks! I learned!

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks so much for the comment!

[Emailricscott]

Humor and a wider understanding of normal - awesome job!

[grahamstreeter]

Wider understanding of "Normal". You nailed it.

[Allegra250]

That was wonderful! I see why she is an inspiration to many.

[grahamstreeter]

Thanks for taking the time to comment. I will pass this and all comments along to the one who really needs to hear it....Marty herself. I'll keep you posted as we get closer to the documentary and feature film. "Normal Folk". If you google it you can find the website. Keep in touch. And thanks so much for the support. -Graham

[Allegra250]

I posted this video on my autism support web board, I know many people there will find her as wonderful as I do.

[grahamstreeter]

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!