Noah Houston, a local teenager diagnosed with nonverbal autism at age 2, has defied early diagnosis and thrived in college and athletics, excelling at Iowa Western Community College and a track and field athlete. Despite his struggles, Houston, who is now doing sports media for his major and is also a field athlete, has overcome obstacles such as early schooling and peer models. His mother, Lynn Haver, followed professionals who recommended early education and pushed past expectations set by doctors. Despite this, Noah, now 18, hopes to use his voice for his career. He has also found a passion for running and competing in races.