In today’s Observer Magazine there is an article about Susan Boyle in which she reveals her recent diagnosis with Asperger Syndrome. She found fame and fortune 4 years ago on the talent show, “Britain’s Got Talent.” Now age 52, she is a best selling recording artist and a multi-millionaire. So why does she need a diagnosis? Susan’s answer is instructive, and a valuable lesson for all who question why we would ever seek to label our child or ourselves.

“Asperger’s doesn’t define me. It’s a condition that I have to live with and work through, but I feel more relaxed about myself. People will have a greater understanding of who I am and why I do the things I do.”

Without the diagnosis other people wrongly labelled her. At school she was “Simple Susan”. News stories have speculated about her supposed learning difficulties or alleged brain damage. <sarcasm> Clearly there has to be a reason why a plain thinking, plain looking, middle aged women can sing with the voice of an angel. </sarcasm> I only hope that the media circus does not now use Asperger Syndrome as an excuse to dismiss Susan Boyle, the person and describe her singing ability as a “special talent” or “savant skill” that belongs to autism and not to her.

If truth be told, I am not a fan of Susan Boyle, the singer. But after reading this article I am definitely a fan of Susan Boyle, the person. I agree with the author that she is warm, kind, empathic and intelligent. She has battled with prejudice. She has coped with personal tragedy and depression. She admits to feeling some anger after her struggles to overcome ageism, sexism and disableism in order to be recognized, not just as a talented singer but, more importantly, as the thoroughly decent and worthwhile person she is.