I will never forget the day that I put the pieces together in my mind.... I knew what was going on with Ben... I knew what path we were headed down.  Almost exactly a year later, I was faced with the same news about Alex.  Autism...  the word no parent ever wants to hear.  I came to understand very quickly however, that it is just a word.  It doesn't stop my boys from being who they are, it just adds to it.  We have been so lucky to be surrounded by amazing therapists, teachers and family that have continued to push the boys.    

I run for Ben and Alex to raise awareness of Autism and the impact on our lives.  The physical challenge of me facing the hills of the Cow Harbor 10k is nothing compared to what the boys experience day to day.  I have chosen to use this opportunity to fundraise on behalf of the Organization for Autism Research.  OAR is a national, nonprofit organization that is dediscated to promoting research that when applied, can impact the day-to-day life of families, educators, caregivers, and individuals affected by autism.  It is the only autism organization with this exclusive focus.