Join me in my efforts to support Autism Speaks!
I am raising funds to support a cause that is important to me while accomplishing a personal goal.
We have known for quite some time that our youngest, Zack, has struggled to keep up with his peers. About a week ago we were given his diagnosis, and he falls on the Autism spectrum.
There is some relief in it as well as being completely and utterly overwhelmed. We have fought to receive this diagnosis for almost six months. There are too few professionals qualified to diagnose, and too many children in need of diagnosis. Covid has made it nearly impossible to get appointments because often times providers only see one child a day.
Zack doesn’t present as typical Autism - he makes eye contact. He thrives on physical contact - hugs, kisses, cuddles, and tickles. He can play with children - and not parallel play next to, but in conjunction with other children, most notably his siblings.
There are two criteria for an autism diagnosis:
“Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts.” Zack is speech delayed, however, even taking that into account, Zack does not initiate conversations nor does he reciprocate in a conversation.
“Restricted, repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests, or activities.” Zack is extremely inflexible when it comes to changes in routines. He is limited in his interests, activities, and food preferences.
In the end, Zack wasn’t unplanned or an “accident.” I *knew* this little boy had to be born. And now I know why. He is here to teach our family about love and patience in a way that we could never fully understand without him.
I selected this charity specifically because it is the first place I went to find resources to help our son. 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. I would sincerely appreciate any and all donations towards this organization, and in return I promise to run my mommy heart out for our amazing little boy. Thank you for helping me reach my goal. Your support is greatly appreciated!
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