Team Mac

 Mac was diagnosed with autism 5 years ago. What seems like just yesterday we were pushing for doctors, therapies, and simply anybody that would listen and help us get a diagnosis. In the beginning days, we remember that “elephant in the room” feeling during every therapy. That feeling of being lost was so overwhelming.

Those first few months were a whirlwind. Within days of his diagnosis, Mac was engulfed in 40+ hours of therapy. Our whole family dynamic was turned upside down. For the first-year post diagnosis we were all in survival mode. We had so many questions that we wanted answered and had no one to turn to. We did the best we could with what we had and researched any therapy we thought would benefit Mac. By the grace of God, we found wonderful therapists that, to this day, remain a part of our village, a part of our family.

Mac was in home 38 hours a week doing behavioral therapy in addition to occupational, speech, and physical therapy. Slowly but surely, this became just part of our daily life. We learned Mac’s quirks and what made him tick. We learned what made him laugh, and what made him uncomfortable. We learned what we had to do to prepare for simple daily tasks and what daily tasks to avoid, if possible. It was such a learning curve, and still is to this day, I am certain in saying it will be forever. 

Over the last five years, we have seen all the beauties in autism, but have experienced all the difficulties that come along with it. We learned how much fight it would take to get Mac seen in this world. Most importantly, we have learned how crucial it is to have a Team supporting us and Mac along this journey. 

As a family, we have all seen and experienced the impact that Autism Speaks has on the Community that we are so deeply a part of. And each of us, in our family, has taken a role to support their mission.  

We walk to continue to raise awareness and acceptance for all! 

Join us and walk with Team Mac!