Dear Family and Friends,

The CDC recently released new autism figures showing that for children born in the year 2000, the rate of children with autism is 1 in 88 (1 in 54 boys). Autism is an epidemic and there are more families struggling to cope with the diagnosis than ever before.

April is Autism "Awareness" month, but at Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), we are taking ACTION, by raising money to support families living with autism. I am fundraising for our TACA Wisconsin chapter.

Thank you to those of you who donated last year. We hope you consider doing so again. If you haven't donated before, no amount is too big or small! $5 and $10 can make a difference. 

When Luke was diagnosed with autism 4 years ago, I was completely lost. But, the amazing TACA Moms gave me the confidence and HOPE to believe that recovery could be possible. Luke is talking, communicating, and learning now. Although we have many obstacles to overcome, he has made incredible progress. Luke's brother Jack is mildly on the autism spectrum and is a great help to Luke. We wondered if Luke would ever be able to make friends. He's lucky to have a best friend in his brother. Brent and I are very proud of both boys.

Luke and Jack's progress has been made possible through biomedical treatments, intensive behavioral therapy, wonderful therapists, teachers and a TON of hard work. They continue to amaze us each year.

TACA has been our lifeline in both good times and some pretty awful times too. I was asked to become a Chapter Co-Coordinator beginning in January of 2011, so I now volunteer to help other families in need.

Through my role, I see firsthand the impact TACA has on families struggling with autism. TACA supports almost 28,000 families each year at no cost to them. We need donations to continue providing the valuable services we offer these families.

How does TACA help families?

• Monthly Parent Education Meetings including up-to-date books for the resource library.
• TACA Journey Guides free to all new families.
• Financial Scholarships for families in need.
• New Parent Seminars.
• Parent Mentor Program.
• Increased Autism Awareness through TACA brochures, bookmarks, participating in conferences, and distributing "My Child has Autism" cards. 
• TACA's amazing website, including Live Chat. 
• Autism Cares — TACA is a partner member, providing financial support for families during national disasters and catastrophic life events.

Donating to this website is simple, fast, completely secure and 100 percent tax-deductible! We thank you so much for your support. Please forward this to others!

Kate, Brent, Jack and Luke