EL PASO, Texas -- KFOX met Aaron Silva when he was in middle school and now, he's getting ready to graduate from Americas High School. What's special about Aaron is that he is autistic and continues to overcome his challenges.

Aaron's passion is music. And he plays drums for the Americas High School band.

"I like music. I like to play the drums, they're very good sounds," said Silva.

It's a talent Aaron discovered when he was a toddler. At the same time, his mother was discovering his condition.

"I firmly believe that if they have a potential, a talent, let's build on that and not just focus on the weaknesses," said Debbie Silva, his mother.

Debbie Silva said Aaron's disability has never stopped him. Aaron has autism, a developmental disorder that affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills. Starting high school was a big event for Aaron and his mother had apprehensions. But being in the band has boosted his self-esteem and his band director can vouch for that.

"He always does a little pep talk to the kids. Band, listen up, I want you guys to get out there and do a good job," said Henry Vega, Americas High School band director.

Thursday night was his last performance with the Americas band. And now that he's closing one chapter of his life as he prepares to graduate, he's getting ready for the next step.

"Now, we're just gonna focus on working on developing a skill for him so he can work in the community," said Debbie Silva.

Aaron has already set some goals and plans to accomplish them.

"I work in a job. I'm gonna work in the Super Target," said Aaron

Experts says one in 166 children are diagnosed with autism.