As most of you know, Ashley was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 26 months, after months of worry.  At that time, she had no real connection to us, she had no real words, and she spent most of her time crying.  She had such bad sensory issues (which we did not realize at the time) that she was so uncomfortable, it was like she could not stand to be in her own skin.

Once we got her diagnosis, after the devastation of it sunk in, we started bombarding her with therapy.  We used several different therapies, and have seen definite positive results from them.

While Ashley is still delayed in her social and verbal abilities, she has come along way.  She has a very strong bond with mommy and daddy, and a developing relationship with big sister Delaney now too.  She is able to voice her needs very clearly and has started engaging in some social language .  Her sensory issues have gotten so much better and she is much more comfortable in her own space now.

She has a long way to go but she is a sweet, loving little girl who is definitely a big part of our lives and SHARES in our lives now.   Something that I initially feared may never happen.  She brings us more joy than we have dreamed of.

With all of this said, the Walk for Autism-Virginia has given our family grants in the past to help pay for our therapies, which literally cost several thousands of dollars out of our own pockets.  We are grateful to the walk not only for the financial assistance but for the support it has given our family and the community.

We know that everyone has causes that are important to them, but if you find it in your heart to donate, it would be greatly appreciated.  It is such a good cause!

Thank you!