Hello everyone,

On September 25th, 2022, I will be running 26.2 miles through the historic city of Berlin Germany on the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) - RUN FOR AUTISM team to fund research and resources that help individuals with autism and their families today.

I will proudly pound the Berlin streets, running my 4th, 26.2 race, in honor of my 34-year-old son, Dexter who has autism; my run is in honor of him.

Over the years, I have been receptive to life lessons that were taught to me by Dexter. He taught me things such as “patience” is really a virtue; and unconditional love brings joy and meaning to the simplest things in life, and much more. I have to say, “I am really grateful.”

Dexter enjoys playing the piano. One of his favorite musical compositions that he enjoys playing is “Green Mosquito.” He loves to help me cook, especially preparing vegetables; he loves to eat vegetables – all kinds of veggies. Dexter is the only person that I know who loves vegetables tremendously; I believe that he is fascinated by the various colors.

I would say that my Dexter is clearly an outdoors person. Hiking in the woods, long walks in the park and going to the beach keeps him calm and grounded. When he becomes distressed, music such as Hip Hop or Rock changes his negative mood to a happier, playful one.

My hopes and dreams for completing a successful BMW Berlin Marathon is all about making life better and productive for individuals on the autism spectrum. I want caregivers equipped with essential tools and knowledge that can make positive differences while caring for individuals with autism. Moreover, I want to raise autism spectrum awareness for individuals with autism because they are constantly struggling to function in their communities, in society and in the world.

By supporting the RUN FOR AUTISM team, here are some of the ways that OAR uses the funds raised:
$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.
$40,000 fully underwrites an applied research pilot study.

Please help me support individuals with autism by contributing to my fundraiser and sharing this page with your family and friends.
Every dollar amount that I raise, no matter how big or small will advance Organization for Autism Research's great cause!