April is Autism Awareness Month and this year I will be running the 2022 Chicago Marathon in support of Autism Speaks! I couldn't be more excited to support a cause that is very near and dear to my family.
My niece Hannah has autism spectrum disorder. Hannah will be in the 7th grade. She has a big smile, an infectious laugh, she is a great gift giver, and she loves dogs (especially ours). Hannah has taught us all how to look at things from a new perspective and has taught us more than she will ever realize. Her 7th grade experience will be different from many of her classmates, but she continues to reach for the stars daily.
This charity means so much to our family as we have watched my sister, her husband, and Hannah's sister Avery tirelessly advocate for Hannah's needs, therapies, and schooling. My hope is that raising money will help give Hannah and children like her more resources and opportunities as they transition into adulthood.
I would run 26.2 miles any day for Hannah and I know on race day she'll track me every step of the way on her IPad and I'm sure she will expect a FaceTime call when I'm finished.
Thank you for your consideration in helping me reach my goal. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Melissa
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates 1 in 54 children is on the autism spectrum.
Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions. They empower people with autism and their families with resources, online tools and information covering the life span.
Autism Speaks enhances lives today and is accelerating a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow.
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