As a child, Ronnie Sidney, II was diagnosed with a learning disability and spent years in special education. After years of struggle, and after being told he would never go to college, Sidney graduated from VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University), and has gone on to become a best-selling author, who uses his experiences to help young people with learning difficulties and to help others understand the struggle many young people go through.
After finishing high school, Sidney attended J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College in Richmond, Virginia, and then went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services at Old Dominion University. He later earned his Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Sidney has gone on to publish a number of books, all of which provide a timely commentary on growing up in the 21st century. His first book, published in 2015 and called Nelson Beats The Odds, tells the story of a young African-American child who is diagnosed with a learning disability and ADHD struggles with the stigma that entails. The novel shows how, with some help from his parents and teachers, Nelson is able to beat the odds and discover how much potential he really has.
The book was acclaimed by reviewers upon its debut, and has received plenty of attention for its ability to encourage readers and help raise awareness for those who struggle with learning disabilities. Sidney has also founded Creative Medicine: Healing through Words, LLC, which facilitates therapeutic writing for offenders. He also works as a public speaker and activist. You can follow him on Twitter HERE.
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