Taiwanese autistic artist wins 2nd place in synchronized swimming in Italy

Rome, April 5 (CNA) A renowned Taiwanese artist with autism won second place in an artistic swimming competition held in Rome, Italy on Saturday.

Leland Lee (李柏毅), who was diagnosed by doctors with severe autism at the age of 1 and a half, finished runner-up among several other athletes at the World Cup for Inclusive Duet Artistic Swimming.

Doctors once declared that Lee would never be able to integrate into society or live a normal life. However, through relentless effort alongside his mother, Chien Ching-hui (簡靜惠), he has built a remarkable life, excelling in areas such as painting, swimming and music.

Speaking to CNA, Chien said she was especially proud of her son.

Unlike athletes from abroad who have access to professional training facilities, Lee could only make use of public swimming pools such as Taipei Songshan Sports Center, while renting a space to practice also depends on the availability of time slots, Chien said.

Sometimes he also needs to go as far as Taichung to train with his coach, she added.

Not only is Lee an accomplished artist, he also transformed from someone who was once afraid of water into a skilled swimmer, Chien said.

She expressed hope that his achievements in art, sports and music will prove that individuals with autism can showcase their talents, and in doing so, help families of people with autism around the world gain greater respect and recognition from society.

The sporting event was organized by the "Progetto Filippide," a program that collaborates with the United Nations and is supported by the Italian government. It is dedicated to hosting activities for athletes with autism and other rare symptoms.