RFK Jr. is wrong. Tylenol does not cause autism. Vaccines do not cause autism. Autism does not "destroy families" nor is it an "individual tragedy".

We are surrounded more than ever by misinformation, including remarks coming from our own government leaders. That is why I think it is crucial to support organizations that support autism awareness and research.

I am the father of two kids on autism spectrum. From an outsiders perspective, our kids may seem "normal". However, outside of close family and friends, our kids are generally non-verbal. Though this can cause challenges with school, establishing friendships and more, we are so lucky to be surrounded with supportive friends, family, teachers, counselors, and therapists. Unfortunately, not all families are as fortunate and lucky as we are.

The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) has a mission to fund autism research and provide resources to help people with autism. They provide literature for teachers and schools, help underwrite grants, provide scholarships to students with autism to attend college, and much more.

For example, here are two studies that they helped fund recently that caught my attention:

The Path Less Visible: Decoding the Autism Care Pathway Through the Lenses of Black Caregivers
(researchautism.org/research-item/the-path-less-visible-decoding-the-autism-care-pathway-through-the-lenses-of-black-caregivers)

Understanding Diagnostic Experiences and Service Barriers Among Chinese American Families: A Nationwide Study
(researchautism.org/research-item/understanding-diagnostic-experiences-and-service-barriers-among-chinese-american-families-a-nationwide-study)

I first ran with OAR when I raced in the Chicago Marathon in 2024. I am happy to have them sponsor my race in NYC and to fundraise for them once more!

Thank you!