Today, over 70 million children and adults are affected by autism. Each of them, have unique strengths, challenges and potential. Autism Speaks will be there for them. You and I can be too. Let me tell you about a special child with Autism that I know and love dearly.

As many of you know, my son Jack was diagnosed with Autism and has been the light of my life. His journey is not always easy, but he continues to make amazing progress daily. Jack is a silly boy who loves Disney movies, stuffed animals and running fast!  The support services we receive has helped Jack learn to communicate his wants and needs to us, and help encourage his own independence.

It’s only through the dedicated support of people like us that Autism Speaks can continue their vital mission work. Each year, the Autism Speaks Autism Response Team makes direct contact with tens of thousands of individuals looking for advice or guidance and more than one million people access their free nationwide autism services and resources. They continue to partner and support research to improve the lives of people with autism by investing in science that will allow more personalized treatments and therapies. You can find out even more about where your fundraising dollars go at autismspeaks.org/our-work.

Please join me by donating to help me reach my fundraising goal. Together, we have the power to enhance the lives of people with autism and make a meaningful difference. Thanks so much for your support!