This October, I will be running in NSSA’s Jack’s Run for Autism 5K Run/Walk!
This will be my second time actually participating in the run/walk, but my first time truly training and hoping to run—not walk—the entire 5K! With my 50th birthday approaching in January, Mikey’s 20th birthday in February, and his soon-to-be 15th year at NSSA, I thought this was the perfect time!
It is hard to put into words what NSSA has meant to Mikey, to me, and to our family.
Mikey entered NSSA when he was only 5 years old. With only 25 students in the school, serving children and young adults ages 5–21, finding NSSA felt like literally hitting the lottery. I remember touring the school for the first time—after touring so many others—and thinking, This is it. This is where my son needs to be. This is where I can feel safe sending him. This is where I know they will work just as hard as I will to help him become the very best version of himself.
From the very beginning, Mikey was happy going to school. For almost 15 years now, he has woken up happy and excited to go to school every single day. And from a mother’s perspective, I can’t imagine there is anything much better than that.
He has been shown unconditional love by people who began as strangers but became his people—angels disguised as teachers and staff—who have seen him beyond his diagnosis. They have taken the time to truly know him and love him, without him ever having to say a word.
And I have had the absolute pleasure and blessing of working at NSSA for 11 years. They gave me an opportunity when I needed it most and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.
So, I’m asking my friends, family, and anyone who comes across this page to please donate whatever you can in support of this incredible organization that has given so much to my boy and our family—and, of course, in support of my almost-50-year-old self trying to run a 5K! ?
Every donation, no matter the amount, is greatly appreciated and will help support the incredible work NSSA does for so many children, adults, and families.
Thank you for supporting Mikey, NSSA, and this crazy momma who has decided that turning 50 is the perfect time to start running! ❤️??♀️
If any of you are runners or want to start running! I would love for you to join Team Mikey Man!