Othmann El Attar is the reason that RIA Institute was set up in 1999 by his parents; at the age of 3 he was not accepted at any nursery in Bahrain because of his autism.
Since that rocky start to his education, Othmann, 24, has developed many skills, not least his ability to copy virtually anything. For example, in minutes he will transfer an image from a mobile phone screen to a several metre high wall with no hesitation and no measurements, scaling things up perfectly.
How cool is that? We love it when he uses his special ability at Baloo's Buddies Art events.
However, as with many children and adults on the autism spectrum, just like superman Othmann has his "kryptonite" issues - things that cause him great difficulty and can be quite debilitating.
So let's talk about disposable gloves. You know, the ones we have to wear in supermarkets and other shops due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Othmann hates them with a passion.
While you or I may find them unpleasant to wear because they are hot, for example, Othmann finds the sensation unbearable and will try to take them off immediately. He may even become quite distressed.
Thankfully, Othmann really wanted to go to the Bookcase on Budaiya Highway today to check out Baloo's "Just One Can" Pet Food Appeal for rescue dogs and cats. He overcame his glove discomfort, donned his mask and ventured into the store.
Othmann was amazed at the number of cans of pet food that have been donated already.
He would like to send a big 'thank you' to everyone who has dropped off a can of cat or dog food.
He asks you to keep hold of your cans until the shop reopens in May when you can drop them off and claim your free book from Baloo (while stocks last, one book - Where's Baloo? or This Way Baloo? - per family).
You can follow Othmann on Instagram at @othmannel and read about him in other articles written by me, Baloo's Buddies founder, on GDN Life.
Be well and stay safe.
Wear a mask in public as required by law and don gloves when asked to do at specific stores.
