My name is Shanel, and I’m mother to Emma, a beautiful, smart, and hilarious little girl who happens to be on the autism spectrum. This December, I’m lacing up my unused sneakers and running in the Honolulu Marathon to raise awareness and support for autism.

This cause is deeply personal to me. Every day, I witness the unique challenges and beautiful triumphs that come with raising a child with autism. While my daughter may not speak with words, she speaks volumes through her spirit, her laughter, and the light in her eyes. She reminds me daily of the power of unconditional love, patience, and resilience.

I’m running this marathon not just for her but for every child, parent, and family navigating the world of autism with courage and hope. My goal is to help increase understanding, celebrate neurodiversity, and support programs that empower children on the spectrum to thrive.

Thank you for supporting me on this journey. Whether you donate, share this page, or simply send encouragement, please know that you are making a difference.

Please help me support by making a contribution to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends. Every dollar I raise will advance Organization for Autism Research's great cause! 


WHY RUN FOR AUTISM?
1 in 31 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism. By joining the RUN FOR AUTISM team, you’re supporting OAR’s mission to fund research and resources that help people with autism and their families today.


Here are some of the ways that OAR uses the funds raised by the RUN FOR AUTISM team:

$10 provides a Curriculum in a Box professional development set to general education teachers.
$25 provides 15 copies of A Guide to Safety to families and first responders.
$100 provides the Kit for Kids peer education resource to an entire elementary or middle school.
$150 provides 100 copies of a Life Journey through Autism guidebook sent to a community support group or military installation.
$1,000 provides a research grant for a graduate student studying autism.
$3,000 provides a scholarship for a student with autism to attend college.
$50,000 fully underwrites an applied research pilot study.