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MEET RICKY II
Go Get It, Son!
As an individual on the autism spectrum, I knew Ricky II would have to work harder than most to achieve his goals. Therefore, every time we worked on a new skill, I told him he was gaining another superpower. I could already see the mighty, mighty oak tree within my acorn.
So I poured life into him through mantras like “I can be anything I want to be when I plan and work hard,” “Be kind and give it your all,” and “Good, better, best—never let it rest until your good is better and your better is your best” as we worked to gain new skills. Ricky II added to his Good, Better, Best, “And your best leads to success!”And that’s exactly what happened.
Take a glimpse into Ricky II's inspiring journey.
2006: The Beginning
Ricky II made his grand entrance into the world, a testament to resilience and hope. Born as "Twin B" during a fragile pregnancy, he emerged as his mother's miracle child. From the start, Ricky II's journey was marked by courage, determination, and his mother's unwavering love.
Acorn
2008: The Birth of KinderJam®
Noticing characteristics of developmental delays, Ricky II's mother created a music and movement program to engage him. This daily routine laid the foundation for KinderJam®, born from love and dedication.
2011: Autism Diagnosis
At four years old, Ricky II was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, marking the start of a journey filled with growth opportunities, supported by his mother's boundless love and determination.
Sprout
Seedling
2013: Artistic Talent Emerges
In kindergarten, Ricky II's passion for art blossomed. His drawings, often of inanimate objects that he felt incredibly to, a trait common among individuals with autism, reflected his unique perspective. His art became a powerful means of self-expression.
2017: Co-Authoring a Book and Musical Expansion
Ricky II co-authored "Friendship Numbers: The Adventures of SuperDuperKid," promoting inclusion and diversity. He also discovered a love for the euphonium, expanding his musical horizons.
Sapling
2019: Middle School Musical Achievements
Ricky II's selection for the middle school wind ensemble highlighted his musical talents, reflecting the importance of nurturing the unique abilities of children on the autism spectrum.
2020: Finding His Voice
Launching "Ricky II's Life Reflections" on YouTube, Ricky II and his mom promoted autism awareness.
Young Tree
2021: A New Adventure
Enrolled in the FAMU Marching 100's Summer Band Camp, Ricky II also joined his high school marching band. His musical talents continued to blossom, supported by his mother's unwavering encouragement.
2022: Leadership and Academic Excellence
Ricky II earned the Spirit and Leadership Award at FAMU's Band Camp and became the executive officer of his high school marching band. Maintaining a 3.9 GPA, he demonstrated dedication and resilience.
2023: Soaring to New Heights
Ricky II earned the Most Dedicated Drum Major Award and a full Band Camp scholarship. Inducted into the National Honor Society, he continued to excel in academics, leadership, and his passion for painting.
2024: Achieving Dreams
Ricky II was invited to perform in the Mid-Atlantic Honor Band, became the first drum major on the autism spectrum for his high school band, and was accepted into Florida A&M University ​through the Center for Disability Access and Resources (CeDAR) College Study Skills Institute (CSSI) program for students with disabilities—a dream come true. His journey is LIMITLESS!!!!! And, so is Ricky II
2025: Living the Dream
Now a thriving college student at Florida A&M University, Ricky II is living his dream by marching with a college band and earned a 4.0 during his first semester of college with 17 credit hours. His journey is about breaking barriers, honoring his gifts, and showing the world what is possible. Ricky II is an Oak Tree, who will one day contribute to his community mightily
Oak Tree
The mantras Ricky II grew up saying are now his motivational anthem, “Go Get It, Son!” And, he’s sharing it with you!
Go Get It, Son (Mother's True Voice Outro)KinderJam
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Click the image to download Ricky II's Anthem
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