When I heard that Rawtism was willing to challenge me to comment on a post for a fundraiser for autism. I was so happy to make a difference. I realized that although I WANT to raise awareness about autism, I am not really aware myself sooooo……Let me introduce you to @sendchocolates (follower her on twitter) a mother of 3 autistic children.
“Isn’t the sky the most beautiful shade of cerulean blue today?”
I thought he was color blind, because when I asked what color an object was, he would tell me the wrong one. In school, turned out not only did he know cerulean blue, as he told his teacher, he knew the entire box of Crayola 64 crayons! He wore an Indiana Jones fedora for three straight years. He wouldn’t wear anything but tan pants to “look like Indy” for at least two years. When he was younger, I had to flush the toilet for him, he couldn’t stand the sound. He loved water play and would spend hours playing at the sink. He hates to cut his hair. He can tell you more than you ever wanted to know about UFOs, Mythbusters and the latest video game to capture his interest, but he couldn’t tell the librarian his phone number. He cries easily, especially when frustrated, which also happens easily. He knows what direction he is traveling at any given moment. He notices details that would escape most of us. Like the time they painted a gas station bench…the new color, the old color…doesn’t matter. He remembers. But he can’t recall his math facts. He doesn’t like doing activities that are not of his own choosing, and hates to perform on cue. He cannot eat gluten or dairy without a lengthy side trip to the bathroom. Consequently, he is on a special diet. He still moves snails out of harms way, just as he once did when he was two. He is now ten.
She yowls like a cat when she is angry. Hours are spent in solitary play. She is very imaginative, creating elaborate worlds in her play, but other people don’t easily fit into her scenarios. She can be very rigid. She likes routine. She has a hard time with transitions, even when it is something she really wants to do. Her self-control, while improving, can be difficult. She eats almost anything, and more than you would think…she is a elfin little thing. She cannot read yet, and doesn’t so much want to. She must be taught concepts repeatedly in order for them to take. Sometimes they do. She is a sensory-seeker, needing a lot of hugs, cuddles and attention. If she doesn’t get it, she will act out negatively. We call it “getting her pound of flesh” one way or another. Her whole life is a song. Even her voice is a song: a high-pitched melodious voice is used in conversation. Unless she is yelling. She speaks in half sentences. “Want cookie!” She is social, and loves having friends. She likes being in charge. She has trouble understanding changed decisions…she is certain they are lies. If I say something, I must follow through. She has a memory like an elephant, when it comes to things she cares about. She throws the worst tantrums I have ever seen. She is seven.
She loved to swing as a baby. At three, she threw the worst tantrums I had ever seen. I would have to hold her to keep her from hurting herself and me. In preschool, while other girls wanted to be a mom, she told her teacher she wanted to be a paleontologist. When her teacher expressed confusion you know, a scientist that studies dinosaurs. (everyone knows that). She taught herself to read at three and a half. She was reading chapter books by age five. She was a walking dictionary. She loves Biology, genetics, Latin, Logic. She is very literal, black and white and has a strong sense of justice. She doesn’t always pick up nuances. Interruption of conversations comes naturally to her, but not because she is rude, she just doesn’t get the rhythm of the talk. She understands sarcasm, but doesn’t appreciate it. She struggles with perfectionism, and a lot of anxiety. She taught herself to knit and play the piano. She tries hard to fit in with her peers, but there is always something just different about her. We say she is the “oldest thirty year old” we know. She is fourteen.
Some may say, “Well, sure, that is any kid!” But truly, my kids are like the amp in the movie Spinal Tap . Most amps went to ten. But the one in Spinal Tap went to eleven, “that’s one more, isn’t it? ” And that’s what my kids are…just a bit more.. a bit harder. This is what autism looks like in my house. I have no idea what causes it. I only know I watch my children struggle with it. We are fortunate, I suppose, since the picture I paint you is of high-functioning autism. They all have speech. They don’t spin. But it still affects our lives. We walk on eggshells. It isn’t so much a cure I want…as an answer of what caused it, but if you ask my kids, they will tell you they want a cure. They say it is hard to live in their skin. I can see that’s true. Every day, I see that’s true.
While Rawtism was happy sponsor this event, Please note that their site is under restruction. Feel free to email info@rawtism.com or check back soon for updates. They are offering a free resource titled “Top 10 Things to Help Your Child with ASD now” send and email with your name and address to Info@rawtism.com and put freebie in the subject line.
What can you do to make a difference? Well, Rawtism has promised to give .25 for every comment made. How many do you think we can collect today? Lets try for $100, thats 400 comments. Do you think we can do it. The donation will be made to AutismSpeaks.com so we can help families like @sendchocolate. So pass the word on.
Summer Parties
{ 440 comments }
Am I the first comment?! Wow… well I haven’t experienced Autism except with a friend’s granddaughter but since I have a daughter with ADHD I can sympathize with their plight. Both conditons are hard, and not easily managed. Good luck on the 400 comments!
Angie
@pricousins
I used to work with children with autism and those children still have a special place in my heart. I worked with parents like Tina and watched them struggle sometimes to just get through the day. Any opportunity to raise awareness of autism and raise money for autism research is one I’ll gladly take. Thanks for sponsoring and hosting this!
This post was beautiful! I can see my J in each of your children. I completely forgot about the toilet! Thank you for the reminder.
And the water play? I remember two months in a row where my water bill was astronomical! Come to find out, J was staying awake and going and playing in the bathroom sink into the wee hours of the morning! 
My lil’ guy is a sensory seeker as well! There are times where that is beautiful, and times where it can be quite painful (he has a hard head, & when it barrels into your stomach…well, I’m sure you know). 
Thank you for sharing a glimpse of what life with autism is like for you!
I am delighted to comment for this great cause. The work Rawtism is doing to make a difference in the lives of families affected by ASD is not only effective, but I believe it is a vital part of a successful treatment program. Keep you the great work!
Is this where my comment will count for the fundraiser? My oldest has autism and I’m always happy to raise money for the cause!
@fishbowlsense here.
Thanks for publishing this. I didn’t know much about autism, but thanks to you, I now know just a little bit more! I have a very close friend who is a special ed teacher. His favorite students are autistic. He finds them both challenging and inspiring.
What a great idea to have a fundraiser comment challenge! I’d like to do everything I can to support your efforts!
As a individual with a background in inclusive education and disability issues, I cannot stress enough what an important issue this is. With numbers on the rise, it’s even more important for people to be informed. Support research, early intervention, improved teaching methods, and community support for individuals w/ Autism and their families.
Best- Bethe
My husband’s nephew is autistic… I do whatever I can to help. Just got the email re signing up for “Ride for Autism” in June! Hope to see some people there!
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1686363&assetId=2e4e9d65-2076-4539-b285-e7f21f83cdb0
thought I’d ads my comment to say that the CommentLuv plugin would fit just dandily here :@)
My godmother has a 15 year old son with autism and I have seen her struggles with life with his issues and his struggle to try to “fit in.” I hope that your efforts today are highly successful and I will do my part to help spread the word.
Beautiful Post. Thank you for sharing a look into your life. I went to school my whole life with a young man w/Autsim and it affected his family’s lives greatly. He was a wonderful boy and we were all protective over him. He is not high functioning and he always struggled. But we still loved him. He remembered all of our names, but would tell you the bus was going to crash into a tree. Thank you for spreading the word and raising awareness.
I’ve been blessed with not having autism occur in my family & immediate circle, but my heart goes out to the families which must cope. Awareness & empathy from individuals – and the support of the immediate community and society-at-large are key…..
Wow I am truly glad to have read this. My boy doesnt talk or interact much but he does read and write. I always thought he was the craziest autistic child around because they are not supposed to like being touched (the books say) but he loves being tickled like nothing else ive found. Thanks for the post oh and im definitely going to follow @boxofchocolates and @rawtism
–@richbreton
My son is in the spectrum, I’m so excited to see ppl are responding to this post. I hope you find many more responses.
I, too, will follow @boxofchocolates and @rawtism. I recently made a friend whose child is autistic, I commend her for both the extra effort she puts into raising her son (and still is highly functional at work) and for the extra loves she gives him.
Thank you supporting Autism Awareness in such a unique way!
This is a wonderful thing you’re doing!
As a pediatric nurse I was a case manager for a case where the mother was a high functioning Aspergers and a mother to 4 Asperger children. She was amazing, with broken English (she told me she has her own language in her head) and basically no eye contact. She told me that if she saw me out in public and she didn’t say hi I was not to be offended. She does not recognize people by face…she will walk past her own children in the hallways of school. She told me that watching things spinning help to calm her when she is in one of her “panic” moods. She was not diagnosed until 6 years ago. She had been admitted to psych units when in the ER for other problems because when she gets nervous she withdrawals and won’t talk. So very interesting to actually hear what is going on in the mind of someone with this condition.
What a beautiful thing you are doing! I will continue to RT this, and pray for as many comments as possible.
God Bless,
Pampered Mommy
I think this is beautiful and applaud your effort to raise awareness about autism. My mother in law has worked with many children with autism in her nearly 20 years in the school system. I also had a friend whose son was autistic. My heart and prayers go out to all the families whose lives have been touched by austism. I hope that more people will educate themselves about it and reach out to help those who deal with it on a daily basis.
@greetingsthatgrow
Beautiful post! I posted your request for comments and hope that twitterville responds
I have a nephew who is high-functioning autistic, my sister is a single mom and she struggles. Though she is blessed with the best friend any woman could have and so that helps her to survive. My nephew is half american/half japanese, he is absolutely gorgeous. I have six kids and fortunate to only have one special needs child (not autistic) but I can imagine the heartache of watching your child struggle through autism. A few years ago (before my nephew was diagnosed) we had a family Christmas (all the Snow’s at my house). He kept putting dvd’s in the dvd player, and taking them out, not even watching them. We just thought he has other issues, he was hard to handle. Temper tantrums, oh wow, even I was shocked and I’ve seen some doozies. I’m proud of my sister as she is doing this pretty much by herself (she lives too far away for us to help, and I think that’s her choice). Dealing with raising children is hard enough, when the child is autistic it takes a very special human being to cope with the challenges.
Bless you all for all you go through! I hope you get your 400 comments!!!
Thanks to @PartyElizabeth for posting this on her site and helping bring about awareness to this cause. We are happy to help get the word out and would like to help any way we can to support this wonderful program.
Here I am getting my quarter’s worth!
I LOVE the cerulean blue story!?
What a great way to make a difference in the lives of families and children who need as much support as possible!
Doing my part to help a great cause.
I have a 11 year old cousin-Isiah Williams with Autism and have donated to the local fund raiser in Massachusetts to support him and their cause. My Aunt & Uncle have done a wonderful job giving him the best care possible and my Aunt Renee is involved and spends countless hours as an Advocate in MA for families with children in getting them the help they need and deserve. I will pass along to them so they may add their comments as well for this worthy cause.
I taught autistic children how to swim when I was a lifeguard.
Both they and their amazing families have remained forever on my heart.
A great post, a great cause. I’m in for a quarter.
Therapeutic riding and hippotherapy programs have been known to help with autism. You may support that effort by donating (online or in person) to Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center in Loxahatchee (Wellington), Florida. Vinceremos’ annual benefit is in 1 week if you are local and want to attend. Please see their web site.
Wow–I didn’t know much about autism, either. This was an amazing post. Way to go Rawtism!
~Janene
Tugging at my heartstrings – thank you!
What a wonderful cause. I know families dealing with this and my heart/prayers go to them always!
What a wonderful post! I am happy to comment in the hopes of raising awareness about autism! This is a very special way to raech out and educate! Thank you!
A friend I made through my job has children with autism. He and his wife fight tirelessly for autism awareness, research and education and are some of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met. I am happy to help further such an important cause.
My nephew is on the autism spectrum (very high functioning). He’s 10, and he’s an awesome kid. A gifted musician. Great fundraiser, thank you!
I’ve been blessed and sheltered throughout my life and must confess that I have no clue what autism is about. Your article definitely touched a soft spot. I thank you for broadening my horizons and for giving me a chance to contribute in this way.
Thank you so much for this blog post and helping to make a difference.
Happy to try to help here! I produce the LD Podcast- a podcast about learning and learning disabilities- we have lots of resources that might be able to help you and other parents/teachers of kids with special needs. You can find us over at http://www.ldpodcast.com.
I’ve got a couple of people lined up to speak about autism spectrum disorders- those should occur later in the spring.
Good Luck!
A very worthy and important cause. Thank you for this.
Thank you so much for posting this! What great stories about the kids!
Hehe I forgot to comment myself!!!! Please follow @sendchocolate and @rawtism!! They have been wonderful to share with us!!
@PartyElizabeth
I’m an art teacher, or at least was prior to motherhood, and I’ve come across many Autistic students in my classes. I’d love to send more money to Autism Speaks for research and also for raising awareness and creating educational methods to help parents and teachers best work with these special children. Thanks for the post!
Thanks for posting on this very important topic! It was good to read a first-hand account!
What an awesome way to raise money and awareness for such a wonderful cause.
what a great cause…and @sendchocolate is one of my favorite tweeps – I’ve been following her for almost a year now.
@rawtism rawks for their generous donations!
Woo-hoo, cha-ching for autism awareness. Very cool! Love you SendChocolate!
Commenting for Autism Change. Rock on.
What a fabulous idea for a worthy cause! Here’s to 400 comments!
Thanks, everyone, for donating your time and words to a cause that is near and dear to my heart. Thanks, @rawtism for what you are doing.
If you want more raw, in-your-face stories about autism, check out Autism Sucks: http://autismsucksrocks.blogspot.com/ It is written by the community of those who deal with autism on a daily basis… parents & caregivers. It was my way of providing a forum for those who need it.
T.
twittered at https://twitter.com/blogdiva/status/1207574634
good luck!
Wow, what a great cause, and what a wonderful post! Thanks for doing this.
What a great way to raise money and spread knowledge. Great post.
My son is on the spectrum. Thank you for trying to raise awareness for this cause!
I give all prayers to all afflicted.. KEEP YOUR HEADS UP HIGH
Excellent! I’d post a million times if I could!
This is a great idea. I hope it’s replicated all over the place.
This is a great idea! Thanks for giving us a chance to help.
Wow. What an awesome insight into the life of each of her children. I can only imagine what their ‘eggshells’ look like in comparison to every one else.
Thank you for sharing this story.
What a wonderful cause! My 6-year-old son is on the spectrum and is the light of my life.
Great idea. glad to help!
Great article and wonderful read. Thanks for sharing with us Twitter folks!
The descriptions of those children are exceptionally vivid. Thank you for the article!
This is an inspired way to raise much needed funds for a most worthy cause. Congratulations and may many others join the cause.
Great Post! Not everyone looks @ life thru same color glasses! LOL
What a great blog – very interesting and such a good cause!!
This is a great idea! I hope we get to 400! Thanks Elizabeth
Beautifully written prose…and what a great way to support a cause that affects so many yet often overlooked
Autism spectrum disorders is a major issue that the country needs
to address.
Early intervention is essential. Advocating for you child indispensible.
Marcia G. Yerman
Wonderful way to make use of connections online to support such an important cause. Know so many people who are affected by autism—huge need for research and understanding. Thanks for helping.
Happy to comment on your worthy efforts for kids!
Here’s my
nickelsquarters worth@DaMav
This is a wonderful article… and a worthy cause. Thank you for sharing your story.
the sky is powder blue with cotton clouds and a blonde sun with long braids.
Your children are beautiful.
Thanks for such a wonderful post!
Oh, I hope you can get thousands of comments to help those in need, good luck!
What a fantastic idea. I couldn’t be happier to comment and, by extension, throw my “quarter” into the pot.
My son is an Aspie. I totally recognize much of what you talked about! You know, its not an easy life, but you sure do notice the small victories! Tiny things normally overlooked are suddenly causes for huge celebrations!
Great post and so appreicate the candor. Parents of these children struggle alittle differently. I have seen the challenges first hand. I have a 16 year old nephew with autism. He is not high functioning and he has no speech. He can communicate through some sign language. This is a great cause.
Great post! We have a neighbor with a high functioning autistic child. He’s wonderful, but it must be difficult for both parent and child. I hope you make your goal.
Excellent way to raise awareness..Thanks for being a part of the solution! All the best to you.
Wow, what a great post. Seriously.
Such an amazing and inspiring story. I have nothing but admiration and respect for a mother of 3 children, all who have autism. And, what a wonderful and inventful way to raise awareness and funds!!
What a great idea I hope you raise a ton of money!!!
What a wonderful idea & Valentines present. Repost & repost if you can. Glad to help raise money for a good cause.
Thanks so much for the post! It was really interesting and made me more aware of what autism can be like for families.
Good luck!
What a wonderful way to help raise money – good cause.
Thanks for a great post!
Mom of two with Autism here. Nifty fundraiser.
Amazing stories. Glad to help.
Autism is bed, mmkay?
Editor Note: do u mean bad LOL
This is something we all need to learn more about. Thank you for sharing with us.
And I applaud what you’re doing with the comment drive!
My love and support goes out to families dealing with autism in all its many forms, degrees and names. Remember that each child is important and can be a shining star.
What a great idea! I tweeted.
Anything I can do to help!
Hope you get a ton of comments!
)
What a fantastic cause! Thanks for making it so easy for us to help out in a small, small way that has the chance to add up to something big. Everything makes a difference. Thanks for taking the first step.
Consider another $.25 donated! I am sending my husband over to!
Toni-Lynn
Make every comment count.
As she promised lol here I am and another quarter donated!
Royal
Always great to support a good cause!
Hugs and Mocha,
Stesha
Great post! Great way to raise money. Good Luck
Read about his on twitter. We too are impacted my autism in our home. Funny . . I told my kids the other day “we will cross that bridge when we come to it” . . my 4 year old daughter (in process of being diagnosed) said about an hour later, “Momma, I still can’t find that bridge!” We live every moment here as – say what you mean and mean what you say!
Christina
I have a couple of friends that have kids with Autism, so I would love to see this get many thousands of comments!!!
This is a great idea. I hope you raise tons of money.
My husband’s brother is autistic and he is the neatest, most special child I have ever encountered. Thank you for doing something so wonderful to demystify autism and further awareness. Hugs! – Amber/ @jerseymomma
My friend’s son has autism…I know how hard this is for the entire family. Great idea – raise money and awareness.
Great article, well done.
What a great cause!
-Lauren
This is great. My son is on the spectrum. At times we can be very negative as we feel that people are not understanding of us. This may be so, however, I choose to spread joy, peace and love and let them spend their lives with negative behavior. This is a good thing. We get to see how many good people there are out there. Blessings.
Thanks for sharing this info and supporting a great cause.
wow! Thank you for sharing a peek into your lives. I am now on another path of discovery. Bless you & I will keep your family in our prayers.
Joanna @RawTN
saw the post on twitter since I follow you and came to leave a comment
love the idea for a fundraiser!!
twitter: nor_lou
Great cause! Awesome way to raise awareness.
Hope I made it in before the deadline! Have a friend with a child with autism.
Thank you for bringing autism to my awareness. I didn’t have much of an awareness before because I don’t have anyone in my immediate circle with autism. I will bring it into my consciousness for the future.
All my best,
Jennifer
Great job on the post, Elizabeth! I’m soooo glad you have accepted this challenge. My SIL has a nephew with autism…one of my dear friends has a daughter with autism…it touches so many lives. Well done!
Great post and good fundraising idea. I note that at checkout, e-bay often offers me an option to give a little to some worthy cause. Can you hitch a ride there? Best of luck on your efforts.
Awareness is the first step. I have a friend with a child who is on the spectrum, and hope that being involved here and other venues will help the cause.
Wonderful post. Thank you for sharing about your children.
My 3 year old grandson has autism. I love the fundraising by just commenting. Thank-you!
Thanks so much for sharing a piece of your story. I hope you reach your goal.
Just wanted to offer my support for this fine cause. I shared both this blog and their site at FriendFeed and retweeted your message on Twitter.
My niece has an autistic son and I do so wish my friends and family would listen to me about quality natural nutrition, toxins such as mercury and fluoride, vaccinosis and other issues.
I’m glad Rawtism has seen the connection and their family is healing. I hope many others will too through them.
Good luck with the 400 comment goal- should be a piece of cake! I just tweeted about it too
Danelle Ice / Homemaker Barbi
Great cause and wonderful post by @sendchocolates.
Connie
Being a mother of one high functioning autistic child, I am amazed that you have three. I know the difficulties of the emotions and the scheduling. She is now thirteen and has come along way.
Thank you for sharing.
What a special post! I hope you raise alot of money for this special cause!
Grandson just diagnosed with aspergers.
I have two friends with children with autism so I’m all about helping any cause that would help them!!!
Great way to raise awareness and funds.
This is a wonderful post into three distinct view of three very different children with Autism. The author gives us a perspective that most people don’t understand and that is that there are many different shades of Autism. Thanks for the great post.
It doesn’t matter (right at this moment) what causes Autism. That is only a small part of the equasion. There are too many people who don’t understand it and can’t deal with it when they come up on it!
Here’s to making people aware that my 7 year old daughter is not one in a million just because she doesn’t behave like so many of her peers.
Terry, my daughter shares several of the traits from all your kids and it is like and 11 or some days more like a 15.
Jenn
Fantastic post. I have several friends with children on the spectrum, so I hope you raise a lot of money!
ThNk for sharing your family’s story. I look forward to following you on twitted and reading your blog.
SUCH a cool thing to do! My good friend has kiddos with autism so this is especially close to my heart:)
What an important cause. Great of you to help out.
Wow! Very touching story. My nephew has austism and I see little pieces of each one of your kids in him. I’m fowarding this my entire family. Thank YOU for sharing!
What a generous thing to do! love the post, and love the beautiful awareness idea.
This is a very touching story and a great cause!
I wanted to be a paleontologist, too!
Great cause and wonderful post.
I have a special place in my heart for autistic kids! I wish everyone would take the time to understand, communicate with and love them!
I work in early intervention, and I have one child who has been diagnosed with autism, and others who are awaiting a diagnosis.
This is a really great cause!
that is a beautiful post good luck with your fundraiser
My middle boy is an Aspie and he’s got a little of this and that from each kid you described. This is a great cause!
Thanks for sharing @sendchocolate. I also have a child with high functioning autism.
Good going. I volunteer with a group called E-soccer that helps autistic kids learn social skills through sports. I appreciate what you are doing!
http://www.e-soccer.info/
Wow – what a great idea. I think it’s really great what you’re doing, and a good way for people to be able to contribute as well, along with hopefully becoming more aware of autism and what it is and does. I really applaud you for this and will try to spread the word.
What a great idea. Hope it turns out to be a success!
What a great idea! How could I NOT comment.
Make a difference just by commenting?? I’m so in!
I hope you raise lots of money….and get your 400 comments. You’re going to look lovely Red!
Rachel Ferrucci
http://www.touchd.net
Great post. Thanks for sharing! I’ll pass this on to a friend of mine who’s nephew has autism.
Good luck with this. I hope you raise lots of money for such an important cause.
This is a great post. You’re right – my first thought was “Hey, that sounds like my (daughter/sister/brother/friend)!” But I guess that’s what Autism is…all those funny little things, at an 11 on a scale of 1-10.
I hope you far exceed 400 comments. My son, I think is on the autism specturm. Haven’t had hi tested, for sure.
My good friend’s son is autistic. I am commenting for him!
Fabulous article,to have a child with special needs and I can help just by posting. Thanks for all you are doing
I Have several dear friends whose children are afflicted with autism & asperger’s. We will get you up to your 400 comments this weekend honey no problem!!!
You’re doing some awesome work here!
Cyberhugs to you -
Cynthia
As a teacher of Special Needs Kids, I love all of ‘em and will help any of ‘em.
Thanks for the opportunity.
Thanks for doing this. I have an aspie kiddo who we are working hard to recover with our DAN doc. We need all the help we can get to figure out why this is happening to our kids! Thanks for your help.
This is such an important cause. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to be a part of it. I will twitter and link on my blog to you.
I hope you far exceed 400 comments… What a great thing to do!
Thank you for sharing this. It gives me a new appreciation for my friend who has a special Autism child. Happy Valentines day.My hats off to you…it sounds like you are a very good mother!
My nephew has Aspergers, and he is the sweetest, affectionate kid, just “quirky” as you describe your children to be. Here’s hoping the fundraiser goes well- thanks for doing it!
Great cause! Hope you make your goal!
I have an autistic son who is 21 years old. He can be absolutely amazing with some things and still act like an 8 year old at times. He says how he hates being autistic. He is very aware that he is different from others. We try to emphasize his good attributes, but it makes me cry inside to hear him say it. I hope that someday we can find out what the cause is.
Very cool thing you’re doing here. God bless you for your efforts, and may there be hugely exaggerated, over-the-top, success!
Darlene
As a former special education teacher, I had many students with autism. Every day was an adventure:) My grandson was diagnosed with autism almost 2 years ago, at the age of 4. I have a friend, whose daughter I taught for 2 years. She is a parent that fights for her daughter every single day. Autism touches everyone…Thank you for this opportunity to make a difference.
Yay for my 25 cents!
I support this cause!
Best of luck! and if you haven’t yet, check out http://www.Lend4Health.com – an awesome resource for families touched by autism.
Great cause! Good for you.
I care about kids with Autisum.
Beautiful post and lovely idea. Please follow up and let us know how this works out!
Nadia
I hope you raise lots of money and awareness for such a wonderful cause. Tina’s words were tremendously moving.
As the mother of a son with Asbergers, good luck!
Thanks for doing this. What a wonderful awareness campaign.
Great article. Thank you for sharing.
Thank for doing this.
Thanks for doing this.
My amazing autistic son is 5 , this was agreat
good luck! I hope you get 4000 comments today.
As a mother and a health care professional (PT) I am excited to participate in this event and will post the info on my facebook page!!
Thanks for raising awareness.
My best friend’s daughter has been diagnosed as autistic with autism. It’s the real life stories and faces that makes it real. Thank you for your post and sharing your story.
Thanks so much for doing this!!
aah, so this is where to leave a comment. i left one on another thread by accident lol. good luck getting to 400!
interesting, for sure. good luck!
What a moving piece, thank you for sharing it. Thank you for doing this, I will helpt to get the word out.
I hope you can exceed your goal and get even more money for a wonderful cause. Good Luck!
I’m happy to help support an important cause. Hope you meet and exceed your goal, I’ll do what I can to spread the word.
Support a great cause!
Hugs and Mocha,
Stesha
awesome cause, needs funding and research
Add my comment for this important cause!
Susan
My darling 15 year old nephew has autism. Thanks for doing this!
You’ll get there, this is such a wonderful cause and you are a wonderful person for doing this! I bet you get more than the 400 you need!
enjoyed your post. thanks for sharing!
enjoyed your post. thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I know you can get 400 posts by Monday! Good luck & thanks for doing this!
Thanks for doing this for our kids!
What a super way to raise money for a very worthy cause. Good luck with your goal. I am waiting on my blog to move hosts, but when it does, I’ll try to blog about it and send you a few more comments.
What a wonderful thing you’re doing! My nephew is autistic, so this issue is very near and dear to my heart. Thanks for doing this!
Good luck raising money for such an important cause.
Good luck with getting the money for such a great cause! I’m glad so many of us support it!
Wonderful cause! You are doing a great thing here! Here’s my comment to help you get to 400!
this is a great cause that i am more than happy to support
This is a great way to raise awareness & money. I am in college now studying to become a special education teacher.
I hope you get all the comments you’re looking for, this is a great cause
My younger son has mild autism…not quite Aspergers though. He is the “calendar” for the family (having that ability to know what day of the week any particular date is) as well as my human GPS (having that other well-documented autistic ability to know roads like the back of his hand). He may not be neuro-typical, but he’s my little sunshine.
My nephew has been diagnosed with Asperger’s. thank you for this wonderful effort to help autistic children
Happy to support the cause! I’ll tweet it…
I work as an Additional Adult Assistant in a Special Needs School w/Autistic kids–this is wonderful!!
I wish that the whole world knew about raw food. I wish that I could convince many, many people whom I know would benefit from it to try it. One of these people I only know through a friend, but her child is autistic. I hope that Rawtism reaches everyone who needs it.
Thank you!
I hope you win
Great cause! I’m happy to leave a comment here!!
I don’t know if my comments are going through.
I have such a heart for Autism Awareness, having several friends who are affected by it. I wish more people would take time to learn about it and understand these precious people!
what a great cause good luck!!
My daughter is affected. My daughter’s sibling is affected. My husband is affected. I am affected.
Thank you so much for using your site for something so worthy.
Thank you for sharing!
I sincerely hope you surpass 400 comments for the Sake of Autism.
Wonderful cause, incredible work you’re doing!
Great, informative article, too…people need to understand this more!
~Anastazia~
So interesting – what incredibly cool kids – I think autism umbrella is a big one – maybe too big – but I appreciate the efforts to understand, and help.
Thank you for sharing. I am happy to help however I can and will pass this on.
This is a great cause. I have a nephew with autism. It affects alot of people, thanks for doing this.
I’m all in for this cause. Wonderful challenge and I’m happy to be able to participate. I really liked the post and I feel like I know each one of her kids now. Thank you!
You are amazing and so is this site (and cause). Excellent!
How wonderful! Here’s to 400 plus.
I have a five year old son with ASD…
I will be posting a link on my blog…
Making a difference!
I hope you raise lots of money.
Leaving my comment to help out this great cause. =)
Mother of an autistic child here, always willing to help!
great post – not my fav autism charity – but an autism charity none the less!
Thanx a million and a half for your help. I have an autistic son, 13. Marcus is a wonderful young man! He’s beautiful in his silence and dignified in his solitude. God bless!
Really powerful post. So many people still paint all kids on the autism spectrum with the same brush.
I hope you get the 400 comments you need and more!
What a great cause! I hope you get all 400 comments!!
Truly a great cause to be working for, and I hope you manage to reach your target.
Every little bit helps!
happy to support this viral fund raising appeal.
What a wonderful challange good luck on raising money
Great cause!
Happy Valentines, this is a great cause.
Good luck on the fundraiser. What a great opportunity to raise money.
Good luck getting all your comments, it’s for a great cause
this is wonderful! so happy to support this great cause.
Wow!! The description of your son sounds very similar to mine! (especially the toilet, he hates the sound) He wines and cries very easily, he’s gets worried and upset easily. He needs to be touched all the time and HAS to bounce off the walls. He spins…quite often. He’ll be 4 in may. Good Luck!! I hope you exceed your goal.
Autism is more widespread than most people know… it touches all genders, races, ethnicities, financial classes, social classes, sexual orientations, familial statuses, marital statuses and people of all heights, weights and ages. It doesn’t discriminate in any fashion, and the struggles are there no matter who you are. My heart goes out to those who cope with Autism or it’s side-effects (i.e. the stress and extra work that having an autistic family member causes) every day. We need more research, we need more knowledge, we need more ways to help.
What an amazing thing you are doing by not only raising money, but raising awareness!!! Keep up the great work and I hope you reach your goal!!
I hope you raise the money you need!
I have a 14 year old son who is autistic A worthy cause.
A worthwhile cause, and I wish all the best in your fund raising efforts!
I have a 22 year old Autistic Cousin, whom I have at times helped care for. While difficult, the task has been very rewarding! he has such a sweet and kind spirit, and really does have Childlike Faith! Autism is a very difficult disorder to deal with, and all parents and caregivers of Autistic Children deserve our love, support, and prayers!
Happy to help for a good cause!
Great cause, keep doing the good work
Good luck – I hope you get the support you need!
Both my husband and son have Aspergers. I can think of nothing better than raising money to help awareness of this problem. Reading your article reminded me so much of when my son was younger. Whenever we asked him a question, we had to add ‘only the chapter, not the whole book’ for his answer. He is now 26, still living with us and a joy.
Happy to support the cause. Good luck and well done on using this unique avenue to help this ongoing effort!
How could anyone not get involved in something as worthy and invaluable as this?
Back in my childhood days in the north of England, I had a cousin who everyone thought was ‘a bit daft’ because no one really recognized autism as a medical condition in those days. Some of the things that other children said were undoubtedly cruel and harmful, but thankfully, the world has moved on since then.
I really hope you meet the target…
Good luck with the fundraiser! I’ll retweet! All the best, B
Thanks for sharing information with this great post! It is helpful for people like me to better understand Autism.
My contribution to this noble cause in form of a comment.
I don’t know much about autism but happy to help
What a great thing you are doing. I hope you reach, and exceed your goal! Wonderfully written as well.
Autism should have a question mark after the “m.” There is so much we don’t know. It is so important for all of us to realize that this is a “family” disease. I use the word “family” because it does not just affect the person with autism, it affects the whole family; Mom, Dad, sister, brother, grandma, grandpa and even the family pet. At times the stress is overwhelming, but what an honor and a privilege to be trusted with the care of such extraordinary children. As parents, we are usually tired, but so very blessed.
I hope you can help with raising awareness and money for autism! Good luck!
Go for it! Let’s get 400!!! There’s nothing more important than helping others. In this case, my heart goes out to families that have kids that have been stricken with this disease.
I am sure youre going to reach your goal and I hope my comment helps! =)
What a great fundraiser for such an important cause!!
Good luck!
Found this through a Tweet – the power of social networks. This is close to my heart. Sometimes my stepson seems like every other teenager and sometimes . . .
Yes, life is Strange, but there is hope.
I have AS and turned out Semi-normal,
Even if I am slightly behind my age group.
Keep loving them kids, it’s the only thing
that helps and matters in the end.
Renee.
AKA-truesprit
Supporting the cause!!
Here’s my comment. Now give them a quarter, and you kids get off my lawn dammit.
I really hope there is growing awareness about autism and diet!
All the best with your fundraiser, lets us know how you go. xxx Shell
What a powerful story, I hope you find your answers.
Being a kid too, I’m sorry to hear about the struggles your kids are having. I hope they find a cure.
Your kids sound like very unique people. You sound like a good mommy.
It sounds like you a good mom, I wish you luck.
I hope you find the answers to need and a cure is found in your children’s life.
This is fun and happy to join in hope you raise lots !
Good luck in reaching your goal…I will be praying for your success!
Good luck with your plan, the 400 comments, glad to be of help have a great weekend. Dea xo
The idea behind Rawtism.com is brilliant! Sunshine rocks.
What a beautiful post. And the fundraiser is great too. I really feel that I was able to connect with the family through that post. Here’s my comment for .25!
Wonderful story. Interesting to see the differences in children in the same family. I felt like the “walking on eggshells” comment might have been an understatement!
Great fundraiser opportunity and can’t wait to see the sight when it’s finished!
You have my support!
Thanks for doing this!! I hope you get more than 400 comments. I am forwarding this to several people!!
What a brilliant idea!!! 400 is on the horizon, off to tell others to post & good luck xxx
good luck ;o)
a good funraising idea
Wishing you the very best with your fund raising efforts and all of your hard work to educate us all on Autism. With love. Nancy
I know a lot of families affected by autism. We need to find out what causes it, because that will be instrumental in both preventing it and finding a cure. Best of luck!
Good luck with 400 posts!
I hope you et to 400 fast!
Hoping you get the support!
Hi Elizabeth.
Comparing notes is always interesting. I work in a public school with autistic children. I think these kids love to impose order on the chaotic world that confronts them. They will take any opportunity to notice regularity, if it can be found, in what seems to be the randomness of this life. Then they attempt to expand that regularity into the rest of the world. I say good luck.
This sentence you wrote jumped at me: “When he was younger, I had to flush the toilet for him; he couldn’t stand the sound.” I work with a four-year-old who, during the diaper-changing process in a bathroom, will sneakily reach over and flush the toilet, just so he can hear the sound and/or watch the water go down. But then he covers his ears and winces at the loudness of it, as if in pain. Why? Go figure.
I think they are here to remind us that the world we’ve constructed doesn’t really make as much sense as we think it does. They’re always pointing out the inconsistencies. Those negligible features of our lives–the “gas station benches” that one day turn up a different color for no apparent reason–those little changes are, to them, evidence that–evidence that, well, I don’t know what those changes are evidence of. But we do know this: the world is always changing, and we’re all trying to find our places in it. We’re all seeking identity in the great scheme of things. And it’s not easy finding that identity, especially for them. But really, it’s not easy for any of us, and so we need to pay attention to each other, and we need to help each other. Maybe that’s the great lesson that the autists are trying to teach us: We need to help each other.
Thanks for posting sharing.
Carey Rowland, author of Glass half-Full
This is such a great thing you are doing. Autism has so many different levels. I worked with autistic kids in our school district and there were some who could not speak or do much, and others that could rememeber a whole book, it is such a complicated disorder.
Denise
Great idea! I hope we make the 400 comments!
Good luck! I’ll have to go pass it on!
I agree we need to find out what causes it. I have a son who is not autistic but ADHD and it’s been very hard for us. I know for a fact that my son was not like this till he got a certain batch of shots. Both my sons were not like they were a week after the shots. I seen this and comment on it before I even heard about the shots may be the cause. I know that whoever says that it isn’t the shots that cause autism or adhd but I know in my heart that it does and too many parents see the change after the shots. Just because it doesn’t happen to some children doesn’t mean that other children aren’t allergic to it.
I wish you all the luck in the world in finding the reason why and also finding a cure.
Thank you for sharing about this real epidemic. I am very happy to add my comment!
Great way to show support and raise money for the cause, thanks for your the hard work and dedication.
Good luck with this. I will tell all my friends to comment.
Good luck. I hope you get many, many comments.
Very interesting. We don’t have autistic kids but know a family who does. Their son can be so loving at times but at others not so. Hope you get the support needed!
Great article & a great cause!
I know a couple of kids at my school with autism….it’s good work that you’re doing!
Showing some love for Rawtism!
everyone should support this important cause.
My heart goes out to all the parents of autistic children, and the children also! I hope you each your goal!
This article was so moving! Hope that the fundraiser is very successful!
What a great cause… this is one of our favorite charities! Good luck on your fun raising!
So happy to help! I’ve seen firsthand how awesome these kids can be. I used to work for a developemental pediatrician. What I missed MOST after leaving that job were those kids! Sunshine, good luck with this endeavor.
My son spoke, dreamed, and played. He got shots and vanished. Pray for families dealing with autism. It is a tough road.
http://www.causecast.org/member/tanners-dad
Your writing helped me understand about Autism a bit more. I hope one day you and others affected get the answers they need.
awesome … i figure if autism is a spectrum disorder, we’re all on the spectrum … so we’re all in this together
… xoxo
Autism is still such a misunderstood affliction. Glad to see this fundraiser for such a good cause.
What a brilliant site! Best of luck to you!
This is a great cause, and these families need all of the support that they can get! Good luck with the 400! Spread the word
As a teacher and mom to seven of my own kids, I have a heart for those who struggle in any way because their perception of the world is different. My youngest is ADHD/dyslexic and has struggled to fit in with the world around him. God bless all those children.
Thanks for sharing. Hope this helps!
What absolute stars these parents are. My heartfelt best wishes XXXXX
I wish you luck in reaching you goal! I am happy to help in any way I can. This was a great post that shows how many different ways Autism can look for families. Thanks for sharing!
As a teacher I appreciate all your efforts as parents of exceptional children. It is always nice to know there are parents out there willing to change their child’s diet to help them feel better and function more optimally. Thank you.
A very compelling description of autistic behavior – good luck raising awareness and funds.
I have book marked the site, what a wealth of information. Thank you so much for posting this.
Stormy5475@aol.com
I applaud so many of you for the work you are doing to help those born with autism, and to help others understand more about it.
I’m proud to call SunshineBoat my friend (she directed me to this blog)–she is a passionate and inspiring individual doing some amazing things to raise awareness about autism.
Lots of love to all of you,
Wendi
XOXOXO
One of my daughter’s best friends has autism. She has come a long way over the years that we’ve known her.
Good luck reaching (and surpassing) your goal!
Here’s hoping you get your 400 points from a mom with a son who has autism.
Autism does not discriminate – it stikes across the board- rich or poor. Raising awareness is a must as very few people understand this illness.
Families who are dealing with raising children with autism need support, hope and some answers from research. I admire each and everyone of these families who will have a different journey raising their child.
Thanks to Cool Mom (the REAL/original wii fit mom)for turning me on to this!!!
I worked for several years in an ASD classroom. We started with one class with children ages 3 to 5th grade level. In two years we had three classrooms,(I believe they now have 5), and I was in the preK classroom, which I dearly loved. I loved my kids, and I loved their parents and families. Although some days were
rough, we rejoiced in each day, in the improvements each child made and uniqueness that is a child with ASD.
I feel like those years were some of the most rewarding years of my lives and I
thank God I was allowed to work with them.
I think it is wonderful what you are doing here!! You are almost to the 400 comment goal!
How and why is it happening that so many children are being diagnosed with autism? Has it been hidden all these years and just now coming out or is it more prevalent?
Revvell
I have a special place in my heart for children on the Autism spectrum….I worked for 2 years with a boy who is Autistic and Blind, and had a precious child in my room last year with Asperger’s Syndrome. THANK YOU for doing this fundraiser!
Best of luck with all you are doing to solve the puzzle that is autism.
Hugs!
Connie
love what you are doing. Red is a fab hair color, go for it!
deb
great idea and cause
Great post! Thank you for raising awareness. Good luck and I hope you meet your target.
I want to see you die your hair red. Thanks for doing this for autism. Thanks to Revvell for the RT.
Wow, what a family! I hope you go over the 400! thanks!
Thanks so much for jumping on the caravan and helping us raise awareness! I am always overjoyed whenever I hear of others taking the initiative to learn about “different abilities”. Kudos to you, my fiend, and I look forward to watching you die your hair! {giggling}
Adonya Wong
Author | Autism Blogger | Twitterer
myself and both my daughters are on the spectrum. this is a great thing you’re doing! i’ll be spreading the word!
My 6 year old son is autistic. We need so much more research done in this area!!!
This is a great insight…and such a great way to raise awareness and funds!
Good information! Thanks for the article…this is a great thing you are doing!
It seems that nearly everyone knows SOMEONE affected by autism. This post is a great idea…I hope you reach 400!
Excellent article! Thanks for writing!
Love that line from Spinal Tap. And I love red hair!
Great cause!
Autism is certainly a worthy cause, and I hope the awareness continues to grow – thanks for your contribution to it.
A very important cause…I hope the goal is met and exceeded.
Always great to see Autism getting good press. Some of our worlds greatest thinkers come from this spectrum. We should embrace it.
Glad to support a worthy cause!
we need more cowbell !
that’s all i got
deb
I was shocked listening to the news the other day that “they” didn’t find a link between the immunizations and autism. Pfft.
What a beautiful post! Thank you for sharing it with all of us! I hope you reach you goal!
My daughter lives with Aspergers. If a comment brings more money for research I’m in.
Caprismama tweet got me here.
What a great cause and a wonderful way to fundraise.
You have my support, good luck.
Great post, hope you hit your goal!
Awesome post! thanks!
I have been learning a lot about Autism. I think that this is great:)
Great post–I hope you reach your goal!!!
Very happy to promote this worthy cause. A bonus would be seeing Elizabeth dye her hair red!
It’s people like you who change the world.
Autism is striking more and more children. Here’s to finding out all the causes and a “cure”. We do need more awareness about autism! Good luck on getting 400+ comments! I’m sure you will
I found your site through a friend. I teach Pre-K and got involved with Pre-K because a friend’s child was diagnosed with Autism and she wanted me to get trained in ABA since his tutor would be spending so much time with him. I did, feel in love with these kids and got certified to teach Pre-K. There is a special place in my heart for children with autism so I had to come comment. I hope you raise lots of money!
You’re getting there… Just a few more comments…
Here’s my quarter!
What a blessing to be able to participate! Thanks for providing this opportunity. Elmo Red is my favorite color!
I’m happy to throw my $0.25 in!
Good luck!
My friend sent this to me in an email, good luck getting your comments
let’s find a cure and end this!
Will you put pictures of the before and after red hair shots? I’m at my friend’s house and we all want to comment!
Awww! I’m reading your comments-both my parents commented on here! AWESOME!
Showing my support!
My sister Julie sent an email out to our family asking for support. I hope you get your comments. I’ve had flaming red hair and it was fun!
This is a great idea to raise money and awareness. . .
This was a great article. I have an autistic niece and I wish she were more verbal so we would know what goes on in her head. She is so beautiful, affectionate and amazing, just seems to be somehow locked inside her own head and body. She is four and she has made a lot of progress, but still struggles every day. I pray that it will get easier for my brother and sister-in-law who spend most of their day and every minute of their free time researching to help her and taking her to therapy, doctors, etc. My heart goes out to this woman with 3 autistic children, thank you so much for sharing your story.
My husband is a therapist for a family who has autistic children.
Thank you for doing this.
Great article! Thanks for posting.
Add my comment to the queue! And thank you for telling us about those kids, it really changed my point of view in a lot of ways and really warmed my heart. I have a little girl I would love no matter what! Thank you!
have just had my first experiences with autistic children of friends this year…what truly special and wonderful kids they are. keep up the good work!
We have an autistic boy in our children’s program at church. I am in leadership and his care is within my responsibilities – it has been a challenging, humbling experience to partner with his teachers and parents to plan for his spiritual instruction. I am learning A LOT.
Great entry to your blog; hope you meet your goal!
Such beautiful and poignant descriptions of each child. It makes me see I have a lot to learn about my own children.
I work with students who have autism at a high school, and I’m thankful that you are sharing and that we can help raise money in such an easy way.
Excellent post. Thanks for raising awareness and hosting this fundraiser. Your goal is almost met!
Good luck with the campaign…
Adam
Great post! Hope you meet your goal!
An awesome post and so awesome to be earning money for a great cause!
Best of luck with this fundraiser and especially your family.
Best of luck with the fundraiser and especially your family.
I have a niece that was recently diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome.
Families need so much support.
This is a beautifully written post. Thank you for raising awareness!
Thanks for letting me participate!
Just showing support!!
Good luck!
Good luck! You’re almost there!!
I’m so blessed to see so much participation! Thanks for your generosity!
I’m here and I’m commenting! Come on folks… 400 comments is easy-peasy!
Thanks for raising funds for such a difficult disease!
Awesome. Great post. Thanks for sharing and good luck …looks like you are almost there!
Well done. Such a great cause!! Good luck!
What a great way to raise awareness!! Here’s to 400 comments!
This is wonderful. We are really greatful that you are putting effort into spreading the word about autism…and doing something to help raise money!
Thank you!
What a great idea
Glad to help out, hope you reach your goal!!!
Came over from Twitter!
What an amazing thing you are doing!! Bless you for helping the cause!
good luck raising $$!
I hope you meet your goal:) Great post:)
What a great fundraiser! I have taught children with autism and am always inspired by how much love they have!
I love this idea!! You rock for bringing awarness like this!!
Hope you meet your goal! God bless!
You’re almost there!!
What a touching story – thanks for raising my awareness on this important issue.
This is a great idea and post! Good Luck reaching your goal!
What a great cause…thank you for doing this!
I know so many people whose grandchildren are affected. Thank you!
Oh how wonderful that you are helping the children this way. My grandson is borderline autistic and we deal with this every day!
Awesome! Keep up the good work!
In this moment we hold the past and the future as one…but yet the ability to change the future. As each person has done by posting on this site and I thank you for taking the time, it does make a difference, not only here but everywhere…ripple effects will be felt…energy is never destroyed.
Great cause. Good luck!
What a wonderful cause! Count me in to help!
So many of my friend’s grandchildren are afflicted with this. It’s good to know someone is helping.
Oh, I hope this helps…it’s such an important cause!
Thanks for sharing this. I have a friend with a very high-functioning autistic child, and sometimes it’s easy to forget that there’s something wrong with him. Until. (You know what I mean.)
glad to help out.
Great opportunity. Thanks so much.
I have an 8-year-old stepson with Asperger’s so I know exactly what this mom is talking about. I can’t imagine having 3 kids with autism so my heart goes out to her. Just one child with special needs can be a handful. We just love him and support him and try to cope the best we can with every challenge that comes our way. Hope that you reach 400 comments at least!
Hi I am so glad that you are getting informed yourself and helping to inform others. Children with ASD come in so many different forms and each is affected differently. I have a son with Pervasive Developmental Disorder which is part of the Spectrum Disorders and so many people are ill informed as to what this means. Thank you for taking the time to write this post and I do hope that you are able to reach your goal and thank Rawtism for being so great to donate. But I already know Sunshine and she is one awesome mom.
Blessings and much love and hugs for all the hard work you do. You are a super, amazing, fantastic mom. God bless you each and everyday. Lisa
This is a wonderful way to raise awareness for autism.
Good luck!
This is a wonderful post and thank you for all that you are doing! My nephew is autistic and I’ve seen first hand how it can affect a family!!
Jen
What a wonderful cause. When our son was between 5 and 8 we consulted many Psychologists to test our son for Autism/Asperger’s. It was a very scary and stressful time to say the least. Kudos to Tina for having a tremendous amount of strength and courage!
WOOO!!!!!!!!!!!! Congrats and I can’t wait to see the hair!
Thank you for your effort towards the ever-growing population of autism.
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