Thank you for visiting my fundraising page!  The work you support is so important!  You are helping to save children from institutionalization and save families from isolation and divorce.

Most of you know our family's story.  Eric was born with severe Autism and other neurological deficits.  We were told there were so many things he would never do.  We were given very little hope. Who could accept that? Who could accept the world being beyond reach of your child?!  Who could accept that he would have no loving relationships, including with his own family?! Who could live with the heartbreak of thinking your child will never play, never know the joy of Christmas, Easter, birthdays, friends?!

Thanks to the support of our friends and family, the guidance we found through other families living with Autism, and the support of organizations like TACA,  we found hope and a path to healing for Eric.  Our lives are now filled with joy watching all the "He'll never"s fall by the wayside and enjoying a relationship with our fun loving, affectionate child who amazes us more every day and enriches our lives beyond measure.  What a gift.

We want to give that gift to other families dealing with Autism, especially those just starting this journey and still facing hopeless prognoses.  TACA is an organization of volunteers which does just that. It partners new families with experienced families to provide support and guidance.  Even today, families are being told to plan to institutionalize their child, devestating, especially since the children are usually under 5 at the time.  The divorce rate among families affected by Autism is 80%!  With support and a sense of community, these outcomes can be changed.  That is TACA's mission.

As an example of what TACA does, the Georgia chapter last year sponsored a Family Picnic.  Families could come and enjoy a day of activites and a full meal that included allergy free options for just $20 a family!  We had over 400 attendees.  What struck us was how many of these families said they have NEVER been out to a family event together!  The behaviors of their child affected by Autism have kept them shut in and isolated.  Siblings had never been able to have a fun day with their affected brother or sister in a setting where their issues would be understood and supported.  Families could also connect with one another and with resources including Therapists, Doctors and other supportive services and received donated items from sponsors.  It was a truly wonderful day which would not have been possible without the generousity of friends like you.

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.  You will not receive any follow up calls soliciting any further donations. 

Please know that we feel immeasurably blessed by the support we and Eric feel from all our friends and families.  You support us in so many ways every day.  Monetary support is NOT necessary, but if you feel inclined to give, please know it is very appreciated. Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!

With sincere thanks!

Kevin, Christi, Eric and Rebecca O'Neal