Neurodiverse Family & Autistic Led

When our firstborn was just 20 months old, she was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and showed significant motor and communication delays. Almost a year later, our second child was diagnosed at 19 months old.  As parents to autistic children, it quickly became apparent how very few resources are available for those on the spectrum and their families.  We were shocked to discover just how much of a financial struggle it was to keep up with all the appointments and specialized equipment/therapeutic items our child needed. 

Although there were some available resources and financial support options, we could not find a program that helped families provide their autistic children with the simple yet effective toys and sensory items they needed.  We decided to create AutismWish as a way to bridge the need between families of autistic children and the therapeutic/sensory items they need. 

Shortly thereafter, we launched the Embracing Autism Podcast to provide parents and caregivers with tips and advice while sharing our personal story.  While recording episodes, we realized it would be beneficial to have candid conversations with autistic adults and those in the autism community.  Thus was born the Embracing Autism IRL video companion series.  Through this series, and the many discussions that ensued, Lia began her journey of self-discovery and realized the commonalities she shared with the community.  A few months later, Lia received her official autism diagnosis. This sparked a renewed passion in not only advocating for autistic children, but for the autistic community as a whole.