My name is Mary, and I’m reaching out for help for my 5-year-old son, Zikitiran—though everyone calls him Nunu. Nunu is a bright, loving child with a smile that lights up any room. He loves Hot Wheels and Tayo the Little Bus, and even though he’s nonverbal, he knows his ABCs, can count, and recognizes his colors. I want nothing more than to give him the chance to communicate and thrive.

Nunu was a NICU baby, and he’s now facing challenges as an autistic child. Recently, he was denied Medicaid, which means we have to pay out of pocket for a full evaluation to determine where he is on the spectrum and what services he’ll need. I’ve already put everything I have into getting him started with testing, but the full evaluation is much more expensive. This evaluation is crucial—it will help us understand exactly what support Nunu needs, including speech therapy, so he can start school and have the best chance at success.

I lost my job in June because I stood up for someone who didn’t deserve to be fired, and now it’s impossible for me to cover these costs on my own. I feel defeated, but I’m determined to do everything I can for my son. It would mean everything to us to get this help. I dream of the day I can hear Nunu say “Mama” and tell me he loves me. Any support you can give will help us take the next step toward that dream. Thank you for reading our story and for caring about Nunu’s future.