A Cause Beyond Words - Austin Needs Your Help

“This is Austin’s world and we are all just living in it.”

These are the words heard regularly from George, Austin’s father. They ring true because Austin is unique in ways we can’t normally imagine. He was born with debilitating autism, severe Down’s Syndrome as well as a host of many other medical conditions. Austin recently lost his father George who was his entire world. Austin is nonverbal and unable to care for himself. To most, it would appear that Austin is void of emotion, feelings and unable to have a true relationship. The lucky few who have been able to be a real part of his life have discovered the unimaginable gift of true human connection. He makes it known that words don’t convey connection, only a loving a heart does. He feels, he loves, he enjoys people, life, and his time with those he loves. If you know Austin, you know what true love is without ever being told. He has been in George’s care for all 25 years of his life. George provided for him, not only financially, but also provided Austin a sense of worth, gave him unconditional love and a quality of life that is unheard of for most parents. George was Austin’s true partner in life. His entire world was devoted to keeping Austin happy, healthy, safe, and loved. His absence in Austin’s life will forever change his world.

Even though Austin is unable to speak many words, his emotion and friendship can be felt by all who are close to him. To know Austin is to know true joy and appreciation for the world we live in. He has overcome so many obstacles in life, through therapies, surgeries and the loss of the programs, including school and essential programs that were extremely needed and beneficial to his wellbeing. He has truly inspired many people to devote their lives to making the world a better place for all of those facing unfair challenges in their lives. Numerous people have been so inspired by Austin that they have gone on to earn specialized degrees in special needs. He has opened eyes, minds and hearts to many who may have been completely unaware of the ways one person could impact so many. By doing so, those people have gone on to affect the lives of countless individuals and families that will eternally benefit from his inspiration.

Austin is truly one of a kind. It is so unfair to see somebody with all of the challenges that he was born with and faced throughout his life. George had tremendous pride in being Austin’s father. He talked constantly about how lucky he was to be his father. He never questioned his place in this world for his son. Every moment of his life was devoted to making Austin’s world a better place. The relationship between father and son was symbiotic and George truly loved being in his presence. For 25 years, they have been father and son as well as best friends. They were truly a unit. Those who know and love them would all agree that their life was so combined that we will always think of George when we think of Austin. Words cannot convey the way that George truthfully devoted his time, energy and life to Austin. With his loss, Austin won’t ever feel complete and his life will never be the same.

Austin needs YOUR help. He sees many specialists with an overwhelming amount of bills. Unfortunately, this requires more financial support than what George left behind for his son to ensure his wellbeing. There is nobody else in the world like Austin. He needs the support of OUR community, the love of friends and the care from family to continue the life that George has provided for him and would wish to see continued. He deserves to be part of the programs he needs, the things he enjoys and a quality of life that every human deserves. Please consider helping this young man, who has no words to ask for your help, so he can continue to change the world around him. We ask that you look fully into your heart to help support the life of somebody who despite the unfair hand he’s been dealt in life will continue to inspire others. There has never been a more true, genuine and pure soul in this world and Austin needs all of us to pull together and ensure that he has the most beautiful life that George wishes for him. Please help keep George’s memory alive with your donation today. It will be life changing for Austin.

-Written by Ethan Erlandson