Shine A Light On Autism!

Today is World Autism Awareness Day! As many of you know autism is a cause that is very dear to my heart because my older brother, Michael, was diagnosed at 3 years old. At that time, autism was a new "disability" and the ways to "treat" were very few. Thank God we lived in New York at the time where the government subsided therapy treatments for him. Now because of its prevalence (One in every 88 68 children are diagnosed), treatments are more widespread. What we are finding now is it seems that Michael was a part of the first generation of autism diagnosis and therefore there hasn't been enough consideration for treatment for adults with autism. It's kinda like oh shoot we've been focusing on research for diagnosing children but what about when the kids grow up. Therapy programs for adults can be quite expensive and if the families can cannot afford it, the adults are forced stay at home. Which was our testimony until we found funding and got Michael involved with a program. My family can rest assure that he is in a safe place during the day and doesnt become a recluse, which is a common trait for most adults with autism. For that, we are so blessed!

Last year I dedicated my birthday to fundraising for autism. Thanks again to all that supported the project. I am taking this year off to recoup in light of my engagement and attempting not to put too much on my plate. But know I will be back with something stronger for 2015 World Autism Awareness Day! Here's my selfie for a cause...Shine A Light On Autism! If you want to purchase a shirt like mine, visit here.

♥ A.Erika ♥

Last Appeal for 25toAutism

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 ♥