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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009
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'Top Model' Draws Focus to Asperger's

Reality TV contestant with disorder becomes a viewer favorite

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(Newser) – Although she has been eliminated from "America's Top Model," contestant Heather Kuzmich, a consistent viewer favorite, continues to bring attention to Asperger's syndrome. Kuzmich, who has the neurological disorder, says she hopes to keep modeling and become a spokesperson for others with the condition, the New York Times reports.

People with Asperger's have trouble with social interaction and communication. Kuzmich had a hard time coexisting with 12 other models in a house, a requirement of the show, but was voted the viewers' favorite 8 weeks in a row. "At first I was really worried people would laugh at me because I was so very awkward," she says now. "I got the exact opposite."

Heather Kuzmich of America's Next Top Model suffers from Asberger's Syndrome, a condition not entirely conducive to appearing on national television.
Heather Kuzmich of America's Next Top Model suffers from Asberger's Syndrome, a condition not entirely conducive to appearing on national television.   (harperslee (YouTube))
Heather Kuzmich of America's Next Top Model suffers from a high-functioning form of autism known as Asberger's that can hinder social interactions.
Heather Kuzmich of America's Next Top Model suffers from a high-functioning form of autism known as Asberger's that can hinder social interactions.   (jc0213 (YouTube))
Heather Kuzmich awaits a decision on the CW Network's America's Next Top Model.
Heather Kuzmich awaits a decision on the CW Network's America's Next Top Model.   (Finaldestination3fan (YouTube))
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Heather of America's Next Top Model Cycle 9.   (adriana71432 (YouTube))

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