Being a mother of a child with autism means living in two worlds: the one your child is trying to navigate — and the one you’re constantly fighting to make more understanding, more gentle, more fair.

My name is Mami and I’m a single mother of three boys. My youngest, Kai, is 14 years old. He has autism, and his life — our lives — have been shaped by years of struggle that most people never see.

There have been moments of joy, yes. But also years filled with fear, meltdowns, school calls, judgmental stares in public, and the constant pressure to explain or defend my son’s behavior. There’s no manual for this. Just instinct, resilience, and love — lots and lots of love.

I’ve put everything into being there for my kids, often putting my own needs last. Life hasn’t been easy — for Kai, or for any of us. But something beautiful happened when Kai found volleyball.

When Kai picked up the sport, something clicked. It gave him structure, confidence, and — for the first time — a sense of true belonging. Volleyball became his safe space, his outlet, and a reason to push forward. With the support of his older brothers, his coaches, and our community, Kai has grown into a strong, focused young athlete with real hope in his heart.

It was the first time I saw him feel truly proud of himself.

Volleyball gave him confidence, routine, a team that accepted him, and a sense of identity outside of “the kid with autism.” He started to stand taller, smile more, believe in himself. It’s been a lifeline — one that’s helped him make real progress in his mental health and schooling.

Now, Kai has earned the chance to play on the travel team in local volleyball club. This is a real milestone. Not just as an athlete, but as a young man who has spent years working so hard to become his best self — in a world that hasn’t always made room for him.

As a single mom, I’ve done everything I can — emotionally and financially — to support my kids’ growth. But the costs of travel, team gear, and tournament fees are more than I can cover. And this time, I’m asking for help — not just for Kai, but for me, as a mother who wants to keep showing him that hard work and healing are worth it.

Your support — in any amount — will help Kai attend the tournament, compete alongside his teammates, and continue the journey that has changed his life. You're not just funding a trip. You're helping a 14-year-old boy believe in himself, stay on a positive path, and know that he’s worth investing in.

Thank you for reading our story — and for being part of Kai’s next chapter.