Those who know me know that Autism is very prevalent in our family. Two of my nephews have been diagnosed with Autism.

This subject has always been very important to me. As I have gotten older I have learned more and more about this community and incredibly intricate condition.

My senior year of college I wrote, created, and starred in a One-Man show called "There are no words". This show was inspired by an attempt to explore my nephew Luke's challenges combined with my sister's experience of being his mother.

In the last few years, I have been finding new ways to increase my support and knowledge of Autism. Most recently, I have been working as a member of the Autism Theatre Project working on their series titled "The Voice Inside" which highlights true stories from members of the autism community.

My interests have found me challenging myself, personally, to do more. Such is the case with my newest venture. I recently have been sponsored by Autism Speaks to run the NYC Half Marathon in March 2024. This race is en route to my eventual running of the full NYC marathon in 2025. I need to raise $1500 dollars for Autism Speaks in the process. I am running this race in honor of Luke who has recently been involved with many health issues. I plan to spread as much awareness and share Luke's story as much as I can throughout this race and the ones after. If you have met Luke or my sister, please consider donating or sharing to help me reach this milestone and support a great cause.

On a more personal note- Autism Speaks as an organization has been instrumental in helping my sister and our family in tough times. Raising a child with autism is not only a challenge but a huge financial endeavor. Unfortunately, there is not much support out there. But Autism Speaks throughout the years has been there. Here are just some of the ways they've helped Emily and many families:
-Advocate for Luke's IEP
-Attending Meetings in person
-Offered Respite in tough situations
-Fought for Luke and Emily's rights
-Provided housing support
-Assign advocate for a range of services for free
-Works with your local state and county
-Aging adults with autism are given living arrangements, health benefits and more.

By supporting my race, you are also supporting an amazing organization that really CARES about these stories. Thank you so much!

Here is more info on Autism Speaks:
Autism Spectrum Disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.

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.