08/27/2008

Orlando, Fla., - Gina Marie Incandela has faced many obstacles in her life.  Diagnosed with PDD NOS (an autistic spectrum disorder), this six year old youngster has been melting hearts with her voice for years.  And on Friday, August 29 she will be sing live on NBC’s Today Show with Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira before heading over to Arthur Ashe Stadium where she will sing the national anthem on Sunday, August 31 before the start of the day’s events at the US Open.

Despite having already sung in Shea Stadium, Minute Maid Park, and Amway Arena, Gina’s journey has been challenging. When Gina was two-years-old, she was unable talk.  Public places often frightened her and she showed no interest in playing with other children. But, every day she worked hard in the classroom and in therapy to overcome these challenges.

Gina now attends a regular first grade classroom.  She often is seen playing and joking around with her friends at school. But her favorite thing to do is to sing and entertain those around her be sharing her story through her music.

 “Gina is an incredible example of how early intervention services impacts the lives of children,” said Ilene Wilkins, president and CEO of UCP of Central Florida, the prek charter school Gina attended for three years.  “We wish her all the success in the world and hope that each person who crosses Gina’s path realizes the potential children with disabilities have.”

Gina’s performance on the Today Show will air live Friday, August 29, 2008 on WESH Channel 2 between 9-9:30 a.m. EST. (Times subject to change.)

About UCP of Central Florida
Founded in 1955, UCP of Central Florida provides support, education and therapy services for people with all types of special needs.  Last year more than 2,300 children and their families received services provided by UCP.  Visit www.ucpcfl.org for more information.

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Ryan Dumas
(407) 852-3305
rdumas@ucpcfl.org

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