Miss America 2013

Beauty pageants are synonymous with perfection, but this year’s Miss America pageant will feature a brave woman who is embracing her obstacle as a platform. Alexis Wineman, Miss Montana, suffers from PDD-NOS, a mild form of autism similar to Asperger’s. At 18, Wineman is the youngest contestant this year and the first one ever with autism. But that’s not stopping her from putting her best foot forward. In fact, her condition might even benefit ... more 

Beauty pageants are synonymous with perfection, but this year’s Miss America pageant will feature a brave woman who is embracing her obstacle as a platform. Alexis Wineman, Miss Montana, suffers from PDD-NOS, a mild form of autism similar to Asperger’s. At 18, Wineman is the youngest contestant this year and the first one ever with autism. But that’s not stopping her from putting her best foot forward. In fact, her condition might even benefit her in the competition, according to autism expert James Bell: "Whatever she's committed to, she would be very hyperfocused about getting the information out and with following through."

Wineman is well aware, though, that her condition could be detrimental, telling Fox & Friends, "I suffer from constant meltdowns if things get too stressful. I have problems understanding common sayings. I take things very literally. And I have trouble communicating at times." Her coping mechanism is to pace around, which calms her and helps her focus.

She also aims to be a living example of strength and hope to those who don’t feel accepted: "I think the world needs to know that even a girl who has a few differences and was labeled an outcast at first is Miss America material." Wineman will compete for the coveted Miss America 2013 title on Saturday, 1/12 at 9 PM on ABC. less