Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor and the Democratic nominee Kamala Harris’s running mate, sees his son Gus’ non-verbal learning disorder as a strength. Recently, Walz has been open about his family’s struggles with infertility, successful experience with intrauterine insemination, and his 17-year-old son’s diagnoses of non-verbal learning disorder, anxiety disorder, and ADHD. Both Walz and his wife have described Gus as an “excellent son and brother,” “brilliant,” and “hyper-aware of details that many of us pass by.” They see Gus’ conditions not as setbacks, but as his “secret power” and are proud of the person he is becoming.
Non-verbal learning disorders (NLDs) affect the ability to notice patterns, learn concepts, and comprehend abstract ideas, social patterns, and emotional cues. Children with NLDs may excel at memorizing words but struggle with skills that do not involve speaking, such as planning, organizing, paying attention, sensing where objects are, writing, physical coordination, and high-level reading. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals with NLD typically have good basic language skills but may face challenges with these other areas.
Anxiety disorders involve intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Individuals with anxiety disorders may experience sudden panic attacks and have specific fears or phobias. Walz has not shared specific details about Gus’ anxiety disorder, but it is likely that these symptoms impact his daily life and require support and understanding from his family and community. Understanding and managing anxiety disorders is important for individuals to cope with and overcome their fears.
ADHD is a chronic condition that includes difficulty sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. Symptoms of ADHD often start in childhood and can continue into adulthood, affecting individuals’ time management skills, organization, prioritization, multitasking, focus, restlessness, mood swings, planning, and task completion. Walz has shared that Gus has ADHD, which necessitates support, understanding, and accommodations to help him succeed in school and other areas of his life.
Both of Walz’s children attended the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago to support their father. During his speech, Walz expressed his love for his children, calling them his entire world. An emotional Gus stood up and proudly announced, “That’s my dad,” showcasing the strong bond between father and son. Gus’ presence at the convention highlights the importance of family support in overcoming challenges and celebrating victories together.
In conclusion, Tim Walz and his wife have embraced their son Gus’ diagnoses of non-verbal learning disorder, anxiety disorder, and ADHD as part of his unique strengths and qualities. They see Gus as a brilliant and hyper-aware individual who excels in many areas despite his challenges. By being open about their son’s conditions and advocating for greater understanding and support for individuals with learning disorders, the Walz family is helping to break down stigmas and stereotypes surrounding neurodiversity. Gus’ presence at the Democratic National Convention is a testament to his resilience and the love and pride his family has for him.
