Walk for Autism, and my personal connection:
Those who know me personally know that my little boy, Brian, was diagnosed with Autism and mild Cerbral Palsy in late 2007. I knew something was different for quite awhile, as his development in comparison to his twin brother was lagging farther and farther behind. Having four children and home-schooling them all, I know that children develop in their own time, but this was not a few months difference, it was significant. Still, the pediatrician said he was just a little slower and would be fine. As a mom, I knew better. So, I set out on the internet to figure it out myself. I spent months and months, and when I was almost completely convinced it was Autism I set out on the really hard part - figuring out where to have him tested without a doctor's referral. I did, Daymark Recovery Services in Salisbury. They are wonderful, and the councelor recommended the psychiatrist confirm it, which he did, and referred my to the TEACCH program in Gastonia, which connected me with Autism Speaks.
Since then I have been on a quest to learn all I can about it in an effort to help him and to help my family and other children better understand and co-habitate. In my quest, I found Autism Speaks, an INCREDIBLE organization. They sponsor a walk every year at Lowes Motor Speedway in Concord, NC, which my oldest daughter and I walked in for the first time last October. What this does is raise money for Autism research and brings awareness about how many children are diagnosed each year, their struggles and triumphs as well as those of their families. Autism Speaks brings information, support, and help with legislation on the need for more research and insurance coverage for therapy and treatments. These children and their families have special needs, which I have learned through my own personal experience. No one knows what causes Autism. There are no treatments or cures. But at least because of continuing research and awareness, there is counceling, groups, activities, and summer camps. And hope.
So to help, I am donating 5% of all paid weddings through October 31st. I have set up a team, which my husband will co-captain, as I have a wedding the day of the walk. He will be walking in my place, along with my two girls.
If you wish to help, you can make a donation on line, or by mail. Just visit my team page, Walking For Brian. Thank you.