Today, there are over 70 million children and adults, like my daughter Elinor, who are affected by autism. When I look at Elinor, I see her unique strengths (she has an amazing visual memory), challenges (certain sounds make her very uncomfortable) and potential (we know there's so much more she wants to be able to communicate). While the particulars vary, all autistics have strengths, challenges and potential. 

The organization I work for -- Autism Speaks -- is there for them. And I'd love for you to help.

It’s only through the dedicated support of kind and generous donors that Autism Speaks can continue its vital mission work. And continue to employ me in the Advocacy department as I work every day to convince state officials across the country to commit services and support to those with autism.

And some of my favorite colleagues are part of the Autism Speaks Autism Response Team. They're the ones who make 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. My friends in the Science department partner with and support research to improve the lives of people with autism by looking for ways to allow more personalized treatments and therapies for those with autism. You can find out even more about where your fundraising dollars go at autismspeaks.org/our-work.

Please support Elinor and others like her 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!