Eleven days ago, Scott and I decided to participate in the Walk For Autism. As of today, we have raised over $3500 for the walk. The "we" is not just me and Scott. The "we" is our family, our friends, and incredibly, A LOT of people whom we have never met. I have been blown away by the generosity of complete strangers. I have been floored by the supportive emails I have received letting me know how much they enjoy following Max's progress on my blog, and how they are rooting for Max and our family from afar. I've even had requests for Team Maxwell t-shirts by those who aren't able to walk with us, but want to show their support by waving the Team Maxwell flag.Our fundraising goal was $3500, and we've already beat it! I'd love to hit $4000, but I don't want to push my luck. I guess we'll see how the next few days go. If you would like a t-shirt, I *may* have ordered a few extras, so by all means, ask away. First come first serve.
I have been told that my blogging about Max's journey is not considered "Advocacy". I have been told that I am not doing enough to support the cause of Autism. But, if writing about Max helps people understand just how much needs to be done to help kids and families suffering from Autism, and it gets people to donate to organizations like Autism Speaks, (which works to change policy, educate, and fund research to find a cure for Autism), then I guess I am contributing to the movement in my own way. Everyone has their own way of working towards change. Thank you to everyone who has sponsored Team Maxwell. Your support means everything to us.
Those who say blogging is not Advocacy need to come into the current century.
ReplyDeleteI read a great quote today, on a Linux t-shirt of all things:
ReplyDelete"The secret is to gang up on the problem, not each other"
If you're contributing to the solution, who cares what you call it?
Sure would love to have one if you have any extras left!! Hope you hubby will meet his target!!
ReplyDeleteKaren Koh
Karen - what size?? Email me your address...
ReplyDeleteSee you there Kat!
ReplyDeleteI'd love a shirt too :) Let me know if you have extras. Donation on its way... Go Team Maxwell!!!
ReplyDeleteThis blog has taught me more than I ever wanted to know about autism! Isn't that a form of advocacy in and of itself? Raising awareness?
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I've enjoyed reading about Max's progress (and your struggles too - it makes it all real), and almost cried tears of joy at your last post. Amazing.
Good luck on the walk this weekend - I'm rooting for you.
I want a tshirt.
ReplyDeleteAnd hey - the best thing that has EVER, happened to me as a teacher, happened 2 weeks ago; my grade 7 student was finally diagnosed with ASD, after a year of fighting for him to get tested. He told his psychologist that he didn't kill himself this year because he "finally had one teacher who gave a crap" about him. But I hadn't done much, that he saw, really, other than make sure he got a compliment a day, and see my own ASD son when I looked at him.They ALL need us - in 1000 different ways. And no matter what we do, or how we do it,it's worth it to them. Anyone who thinks you are not an advocate should make better and more positive use of their energy. You are one of the strongest, bravest moms I have ever known. Keep going, Mama Bear.