It has taken me way too long to feel comfortable attending and promoting events like this one. Alex and I walked back in 2019 as late registrants. We felt right at home and were surrounded by love. In 2021 we decided to take a more active role by organizing our own team.  Our friends and family came out in full force making it a day we will never forget.  I hope you can join team ABC Strong this year in our walk to help raise awareness for the Autistic community.  Your financial support is extremely appreciated, but there are equally important ways to support this cause. People with autism have challenges with communication and social skills. They often find it hard to have conversations and may not pick up on social cues. The next time you are in a supermarket and someone is a bit slower or perhaps does not respond in an anticipated way, be kind. Slow down and try to find a way to connect with them. I get life is fast and we barely have time for the "have to" let alone the "want to". This type of support is perhaps the hardest to give, but is the most rewarding.

Whether walking with us, donating money or making a concerted effort to attempt the above, I thank you for being part of our lives and letting us be part of yours.