Channing's Joy

Autism. Once a foreign word. Now a part of my daily life. My adorable grandson Channing, the inspiration for this team and the Channing's Joy Foundation, was diagnosed with autism in 2018. We participated in our first walk the following year. I wasn't sure if I wanted to do it but I got a handful of family and friends together and we formed a team. Walking in for the walk that chilly October morning and seeing all the blue and the huge crowd, I felt tears sting my eyes and a big lump in my throat. Funny, I still feel that way every time I think about that morning. There was such a sense of solidarity, an emotional feeling of truly belonging. There was an overwhelming compassion for all the other families, many with much larger challenges than we faced with Channing. There was a feeling of gratitude for my friends that showed up for Channing and for all the many strangers who showed up for autism. And when I saw my beautiful little Channing perched on his daddy's shoulders shaking his blue pom pom, well let's just say my heart can't hold anymore love than it did at that moment. I know I will still cry when we arrive that morning (and likely a few more times during the walk). But I hope to see you there! Come see our beautiful blue eyed angel. He knows this day is about him. He might not be able to say the words thank you but he will give you an amazing smile or a special hug.