Daryl Hannah who made a splash in, well, Splash—as well as other blockbuster hits—revealed recently that she was diagnosed with autism as a child.

While doctors wanted her institutionalized, her mother refused—and encouraged her to act.

Hannah’s revelation is potentially huge considering the stigma that still sadly surrounds autism. Her brave candor could hopefully mean that other children diagnosed with autism realize that they can live not only healthy lives, but that they, too, have the ability to pursue their dreams.

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Ed: Sara Crolick