Autism Speaks Be Informed Get Involved Walk Events Community Science
About Us
Mission
Science
Awareness
Advocacy
Family Services
In the News
Press Releases
What is Autism
Video Glossary
Diagnosis
Treatment
Your Child's Rights
Autism and Your Family
Donate
Donate Now
Online Store
Tributes
Our Events
Calendar
Government Relations
Corporate Partners
Family Services
Resources
Outreach
Chapters
Student Clubs
Community Grants
Social Networks
Conferences
Overview
Science News
Portfolios
Clinical Programs
Initiatives
Scientific Meetings
Grants
 
Donor Stories
Donate
Online Store
Donate
Our Events
Calendar
Government Relations
Corporate Partners
Donor Stories: Amber Henry
Online Store
Walk Now for Autism
Donate
My son Gabriel turned six on March 8, 2008. Instead of giving presents, I mailed out a letter to our family and friends asking that they visit the Autism Speaks website to make a donation and purchase puzzle piece pins. I asked that everyone wear them in March for Gabe and to keep the fact sheet that came with them in their pockets, so that when they were asked about their pins they could share information.

The response was overwhelming. Family, friends, teachers, even those who didn't know Gabriel that well all turned on their computers and made donations. They not only ordered pins, but hats, car magnets and other products as well. Many people have told me stories about strangers noticing their pins who shared their own stories about a child with autism in their lives. We raised over $400 for Autism Speaks and I couldn't be more proud. The more we spread the word, more people will become aware and understanding.

I love the Autism Speaks website and mission; it was a place for me to go when I thought I might go crazy trying to figure out why my son was different and why no one seemed to know how to help us. Gabe is now in a wonderful school and sees a special teacher two hours a day, plus a speech and language specialist. He is making a dramatic recovery and without your site I might have never gotten the help he needed. We will continue to raise money and spread the word.

Autism Speaks … and We're Listening!

Click here to donate to Autism Speaks

If you have a story you wish to tell about choosing to donate to or raising money for Autism Speaks, we'd like to hear from you. Please e-mail us at editors@autismspeaks.org.

back to top or previous
Click to Sign-up for e-Speaks Newsletter