Trenton Gilstrap, Teen With Asperger's, Launches Hidden Inspiration Project To Help Disabled Kids Learn

Though epilepsy and Asperger's syndrome sometimes get in the way when Trenton Gilstrap socializes with his high school friends, his conditions haven't interfered with his educational dreams, CNN reports.

Trenton hopes to become a biomedical engineer and was recently accepted -- on a full scholarship -- to the University of Pittsburgh.

"It makes me feel like all that work, all that struggling, all that crying at home alone finally equals success," Trenton told the news outlet.

While Trenton is satisfied with his accomplishments, he wants to make sure that other young people, suffering with similar disabilities, have the same opportunities.

So, Trenton and his mom, Tatia, launched the Hidden Inspirations Project, a nonprofit that offers scholarships to kids living with a range of disabilities.

"The more we've found out how different he is, the more we've been able to bridge the gap in people’s lives -- especially mine," Tatia told CNN.

Related on HuffPost:

Comments

[MaryfromIL]

03:56 AM on 12/26/2011

This young man will be a leader in his life, he is already showing that at a young age.

It is doable to start a non-profit, without tons of effort. My son started one to help parents of disabled kids having problems with the school district. About all it cost him was $100 for the website, and his effort on behalf of the parents. He had just graduated from college and working a low paying job, it doesn't take money or experience.

The young man in this article sounds very amazing, he is a fighter to overcome all the adversity associated with his conditions.

Best of luck to you!

[marinatha]

02:51 AM on 12/23/2011

Trenton your a man after my heart. What a wonderful and heartfelt thing to want to do for others.I want to thank you even though I have no experience with your disability.I do know of several young people who have had a rough time in the past.And you my friend are just the kind of inspiration that they need.Will be watching you and hope to help in some way.

[deewhy1939]

10:30 PM on 12/22/2011

Trenton, you are what this world needs, particularly those with handicaps. Having a handicap is not neccessarily a negative thing and you are proving it.

[MrOnePercent2012]

12:12 PM on 12/21/2011

Finally, some positive news.

[Brianna Cole]

10:19 PM on 12/19/2011

Beautiful story. I hope that their efforts can help many young students achieve their academic dreams!