{"product_id":"playing-in-traffic-my-journey-from-an-autism-diagnosis-to-the-indy-500-flagstand-1","title":"Playing in Traffic My Journey from an Autism Diagnosis to the Indy 500 Flagstand","description":"“Playing in Traffic” is the inspirational true story of one man’s triumph over adversity. As a boy, Aaron Likens wanted nothing more than to fit in. Walking invisibly through everyday life was miles better than dealing with the chaos he found while trying to navigate his way around the roadblocks he found in school, in personal relationships, and in employment situations as a young adult. How ironic that someone who preferred not to be noticed would end up pursuing, and landing, one of the most visible jobs in motorsports: chief starter of the Indianapolis 500, watching a celebrity wave the green flag to start the biggest automobile race in the world and the twin checkered flags that fly over its winner. At 20-years of age he was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, a condition now on the autism spectrum. For years Aaron struggled to cope with the reality that his life was different. But at least now he knows that there’s a reason for that difference; that’s better than the daily hurt he endured while wondering why things that came so easily to others were major hurdles for him. His diagnosis also brought out the best in those who believed in him. That started at home with his father, but then expanded to include friends in auto racing as well as individuals in the field of autism awareness, some of whom helped him unlock a hidden gift for training students, teachers, doctors, police officers, and FBI agents about autism. Ultimately, this is a feel-good story of overcoming obstacles both seen and unseen. But from the first page to the last – between the green and checkered flags, if you like – the life of Aaron Likens serves a reminder that with dedication, love, and patience, all things are possible.\u003cbr\u003eASIN: 1736256173\u003cbr\u003eVSKU: BVV.1736256173.G\u003cbr\u003eCondition: Good\u003cbr\u003eAuthor\/Artist:Aaron Likens\u003cbr\u003eBinding: Paperback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eNote:\u003c\/b\u003e Any images shown are stock photographs and product may differ from what is shown.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition Notes\u003c\/b\u003e: The item shows wear from consistent use, but it remains in good condition and works perfectly. All pages and cover are intact  including the dust cover, if applicable . Spine may show signs of wear. Pages may include limited notes and highlighting. May NOT include discs, access code or other supplemental materials.  \u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Blue Vase Books","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42720550387773,"sku":"BVV.1736256173.G","price":11.72,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0589\/4225\/9261\/files\/1736256173-0_bfd9af0d-bc37-4173-8412-2d1b540be99b.jpg?v=1763154466","url":"https:\/\/www.bluevasebooks.com\/products\/playing-in-traffic-my-journey-from-an-autism-diagnosis-to-the-indy-500-flagstand-1","provider":"Blue Vase Books","version":"1.0","type":"link"}