April is Autism Awareness Month; to start off the month on April 1st, I got to go to Flagstaff with my friend Vicky to an AMAZING conference where I met some very cool people, got inspired, and yes...spoke. I was asked to sit on a parent panel to share our story and answer questions from the audience. It was an emotional draining day, but at the same time it had many highlights like eating lunch with Laura Nagle and listen to her speak, learning about the FRIEND Program that SAARC has developed, and meeting many adults with Autism.
The message I went in wanting to share was for the mothers; to listen to their hearts when it comes to supporting their children, autistic or not. I also wanted to get across that the most effective therapy for our family has been family time. Lessons from the heart. And through my tears (because, yes, I did cry through most of my talk), I wanted to help the audience know and understand what a positive experience this can be if you let it; what a blessing the journey is if you let it be. I think it went well, though when it was done, of course there were things I wish I HAD said, and things I wish I HADN'T. But hey, I'm my biggest critic.
me, Laura and Vicky at lunch
Since it is Autism Awareness Month, if you'd like to donate to the cause, there is the option to donate to our local Chapter that directly effects Race and our family. These funds are given out as scholarships to local members and helps Northern AZ get classes and funds conferences locally instead of always traveling to Phoenix area.
Here's the address if you so choose:
Northern Arizona Autism Society of America
C/O Northern Arizona University
Box 5630 , Flagstaff AZ 86011
Also, check out my wonderful sista's book blog and her monthly giveaway. She dedicated it to Race, it's pretty awesome. Love you Sis, thanks!
1 comment:
Way to go presenting! I am sure conveyed what you meant to better than you felt like you did. Kids with special needs are such an amazing blessing to their families!
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