Today is the LAST DAY! I decided to extend the campaign to today to give people more time to donate. I appreciate all the donations, support, and love I've received for this campaign. I've raised over $800 thus far! As the campaign is coming to a
close, I was persuaded by a very close friend to share my
story about growing up with Michael and why this campaign is close to my
heart. So here it goes.....
I
was about 5 when I realized my brother Michael was different. He
operated differently. His sentences were short. He would always put his
hands in his ears. As a typical younger sibling, I followed him around.
Then one day, I asked my mom why he was different and she explained that
my brother had autism. My immediate response was, "Can he take
medicine?", because in my young mind, medicine helped you get better.
But she said that's not how it works. She stressed the importance of me
being there for him as a sibling. At that age, I promised myself that I
would be his big little sister. Be his warrior, his advocate if you
will. I've considered it a privilege to be his personal advocate,
because although he has autism, he is my brother. And his
autism doesn't stop me from loving him any differently.
My family is blessed. Michael has a mild form of autism, so he does
not require medication to control his behavior, nor does he rely on my
family to use the bathroom or bathe or feed himself. Other families
aren't as fortunate. This campaign is not only personal but necessary to
support the families who may need further assistance. That's where you
come in. There are only 2 days left for my campaign, and I would love
for you to contribute to an organization that gives hope to families.
Your contribution shows them that you recognize their needs and gives
them comfort that someone acknowledges their daily life. I ask you, no
matter how much, to give. Give in honor of Michael, my big brother.
It's not too late to donate! To give a donation, visit this link: http://bit.ly/25toAutism.
♥ A.Erika ♥
