Pen and Perspective: Meet Daniel Nardi, Author Illuminating Autism
When The Savants discovered Daniel Nardi’s memoir, “Autism is Powerful,” we unearthed a voice that demands attention. Diagnosed with autism at age 3, Daniel has transformed from a young man hiding his diagnosis to a powerful advocate for the autism community.
Daniel’s mission is encapsulated in his own words: “I want individuals with autism to know that they belong here and that they deserve better. I went downhill fast, personally, and I want everyone to know the steps I took so that parents who have an autistic child will know how to guide them the correct way.“
This candid statement reflects Daniel’s journey from struggle to strength, and his determination to help others avoid the pitfalls he encountered. His story is one of overcoming mental health challenges, embracing his identity, and becoming a beacon of hope for others on the spectrum.
Join us as we delve into Daniel’s remarkable path to self-acceptance and advocacy. From the challenges of keeping his diagnosis secret to the triumphs of speaking out, Daniel’s experiences offer invaluable insights for individuals with autism, their families, and society at large.
In this compelling interview, we explore how Daniel is redefining what it means to be autistic in today’s world, proving that autism can indeed be a powerful force for positive change.
On Being a Savant
Q: What does being a savant mean to you?
A: Being a “savant” has always made me unique. To me, being a Savant means doing the best I can while facing difficult situations, whether it’s being in the hospital for a long period of time, dealing with depression, or growing up with autism. I have been through challenging times, but I remind myself to count my blessings and pray for better days. Every day is a new day.
The Moment of Realization
Q: Can you recall a moment when you realized you weren’t like everyone else? How did that shape you?
A: I realized I was different when I started playing basketball. Autism gives me and others on the spectrum the ability to focus on attention to detail. Every day I would be outside practicing. I was making every shot I took and had a good vertical jump. Unfortunately, as time passed, my talent in basketball came to a halt as I was admitted to Cincinnati Children’s Psychiatric Hospital and would miss my senior year of high school. My navigation went off track, and I would grow up to be an adult with lots of more challenges. Since high school, I have been in and out of the hospital dealing with mental health challenges.
Daily Rituals and Passion
Q: What daily practices help you tap into your inner genius?
A: I want to be a voice for the Autism community. I have gained a following on TikTok and Instagram because I am using my personal experiences to help others. I have so many people who congratulate me and are so very proud of my success and the work I have been doing to be the best I can be for others. I believe in educating people and speaking up for my peers on the spectrum. I wouldn’t be in the position I am in if I didn’t have the support in life. I want to thank my parents and Tend2others for believing in me and supporting me through life.
On Identity and Labels
Q: In a world obsessed with labels, how do you define yourself?
A: I define myself as a nice young man. I may look cool and good on the outside, but I do have many challenges. People look at me and think I am just another person on the street. I am autistic and have been through pain. My history defines me, but my future defines more of me. I have to remind myself that I am capable. I was diagnosed with autism at 3 years old, and nobody thought I’d be able to read or write. Thanks to my teachers and my mom, I was able to read and write later on in life. To all the moms, don’t lose hope on your son or daughter with autism at an early age. They are more capable than you can imagine. Have hope and be patient.
Misconceptions
Q: What’s the most misunderstood aspect of your identity or life?
A: Some people wouldn’t believe that I have autism. I was diagnosed at 3 years old and am high functioning. I want people to accept me for who I am. All my life I just wanted to be accepted and I just wanted to fit in. I kept my autism a secret for many years. Now, I am speaking up for who I really am.
Creative Inspirations
Q: Which piece of music, art, or literature speaks to your soul—and why?
A: I love R&B music now since I have been with Tend because my caregivers have shown me so much of the music that I just fell in love with the genre. I like the vibes and lyrics. One song that will always bring me back to 17 years old is Logic’s 1-800 song because that year was when I was first admitted. The song puts me in that hospital bed and I visually go back to that 17-year-old Daniel. I think of how far I’ve come. From being through trauma to selling tons of books years later. I think music really speaks to me.
Legacy and Impact
Q: What do you hope your lasting impact will be?
A: I want to be known as a successful author who is a voice for those with Autism and Mental Health. I want to grow and continue to inspire others. I want Nardi to be a known name.
Bold Moves
Q: What’s the most radical thing you’ve ever done in the name of passion?
A: Being in the psychiatric hospital and going through challenging times led me to have a better understanding of life. Yes, I regret my actions, but those actions gave me something to write about. I’m not proud of my actions of wanting to end my life, but I encourage others to speak up and ask for help. I don’t want anyone to experience what I went through.
Balancing Act
Q: How do you find balance between chaos and calm in your life?
A: I wake up every day and I gain more out of life. I continue to inspire others. I have bad days but that doesn’t mean I should give up on what I have going. People will say things and I will take almost everything personal. I have to be more open and available for others so that changes can be made. I take what I have been through and I challenge my inner self. The Daniel at 17 is different from the Daniel at 24.
Role Models and Lessons Learned
Q: Who’s your ultimate role model and what have they taught you?
A: I have looked up to LeBron James since I was a kid because he was from Northern Ohio. I was born in Sandusky, Ohio, and LeBron represents all of Northern Ohio. He has done so many positive things for our area and his level of passion and expertise has blessed so many families. I also try and imitate his moves and shooting form in basketball. I hope one day I can meet LeBron and talk to him about Akron and Cleveland. I will always love Northern Ohio just as much as he does.
Advice to Younger Self
Q: If you could speak to your younger self, what advice would you give?
A: I would tell my younger self to chill. I was so young and focused on wanting to fit in that autism wasn’t even on my mind when it should have been. I believe if I had accepted my true self I would still fit in but I would have been treated differently which is not what I wanted in reality. Accepting autism is hard and I’m sure kids can relate.
The Power of Words
Q: What’s your favorite expression, and why?
A: I don’t curse unless I’m irate or irritated, but I would say “damn that’s crazy” or “Type shit”. That’s the best I can come up with. I think being through trauma and having anger issues has made me more humble. I am more sensitive than you think. I like to follow rules and do what is supposed to be done.
Looking Forward
Q: What are you looking forward to?
A: I look forward to being a voice for the autism community, making more music, and playing basketball. I look forward to expanding my lifestyle and selling more books so that I can reach thousands of people who have a son or daughter with autism. I hope one day my dreams become a reality and that dream has just started.
Check Out Daniel’s Book
“Autism Is Powerful” by Daniel Nardi
Daniel’s memoir explores his journey with autism, offering insights and encouragement for others on the spectrum and their families. Available in Kindle and Paperback formats.
You can follow Daniel on social media:
Instagram: @djnardi55
TikTok: @danielsway