Welcome back! As most of you know, Jaxson was diagnosed as nonverbal autistic at the age of 2 1/2. I cried, I called my Aunt Marguerite and my spiritual mom, Vanessa who assured me that he will be fine and that they will support both Jaxson and I in whatever fashion. Jaxson started ABA services October of that year and it has been amazing! My son continues to flourish with the support of his teachers and staff!

Jaxson is now 6 years old. He still loves to watch the news (yes the news), jumping, running and laughing. He communicates via sign language and an AAC Device. He is a 1st grader who continues to learn and grow each day. I may not hear him verbally say "Mama," but he is definitely a Mama's Boy. I am so glad I made the decision to send him to a place that not only offers him the support he needs but also supports me! I continue to be thankful for my Aunts Marguerite and Angie, My spiritual mom Vanessa, and my friends, Pam, Melissa, Cynthia, and Donna who is now watching over us, for their constant support, encouragement and for always checking on my baby boy. 

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.

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!