I am a mother and wife to two beautiful autistic humans. My family is not able to participate in this march as a family due to accessibility and finances. Taking time off of work would put our family at risk of losing a day of pay. 

As a woman with bipolar disorder and severe anxiety, being able to participate here is making me feel included. I march for other families that are also unable to afford the time and money to walk. I march for the families that know how distressing a loud and crowded event can be and can not subject themselves and their family to sensory assault. 

I’m a mother of three and spend my time advocating for my son and his education. I make my best effort to live by the idea that “ally” is a verb and not a noun. I find that outside of my own personal hobbies and self care, I find purpose and strength in advocating for autism acceptance and fighting the stigma of mental illness.