Jacquelyn Garcia

Hi everyone! My name is Jacki and I hate running. However, I was convinced by a friend to run in the 2015 Disneyland Half Marathon and fundraise for a non-profit. How could I say no to that? After completing that first half marathon I was hooked (to the camaraderie and raising awareness for wonderful non-profits, NOT the running!). Still, I participated in as many RunDisney races as I could and fundraised for almost every one of them. Now that the Disneyland race weekends have returned, I am so grateful I get the opportunity to be a part of Dougie's Team for Autism and to be able to fundraise for the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, an organization whose mission is close to my heart.

Autism Spectrum Disorder empowerment is something that has become more important to me over the last decade as it has directly impacted my family. I have multiple family members who are autistic and each of them have different support needs. Each one is such a unique and beautiful soul and they have taught me so much about seeing the world from a different lens. Still, I have seen firsthand the challenges that come with being autistic and trying to function in a world that isn't designed for them, and often misunderstands them. I have also seen how difficult it can be for my family members to get the therapies, tools, and support they need to help them and/or their autistic child thrive. It can be exhausting (physically, mentally, and emotionally) trying to navigate the healthcare system and the world on their own. That is why organizations like the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism are so important. They give autistic individuals and their families the support they deserve, which reduces added stressors and improves their quality of life. Your donation will allow this amazing organization to keep doing the great work they are doing, which is empowering the autistic community.