Shining Bright - Autism Awareness

In December of 2014, Allison and I receieved Nathan's diagnosis, Autism and Global Delay Disorder.  To say our lives were rocked to the core is an understatement.  No parent wants to hear the news that their child has anything wrong with them, let alone a disorder that will be with them for life.  Knowing that we did not want to waste one minute feeling bad for ourselves, we got right to getting Nate the necessary therapy to help him grow.  Within 2 months Nathan was fully immersed in 28 hours of in home therapy a week with New England Center for Children.  NECC's approach, using ABA, proved to be the perfect fit for Nathan.  After 4 weeks of therapy Nate is using skills he never used before.  Our three biggest concerns with Nathan before his diagnosis was eye contact, responding to his name, and his lack of pointing.  Now, those are his STRONGEST skills!  The professionals at NECC are truly amazing.  The patience and determination they show on a daily basis are inspiring.  The reason for our Go Fund Me page is to raise money and make a donation to NECC in the month of April.  NECC is dedicated to raising awareness through education, research, and technology.  None of that is possible without donations.  In the near future it is Allison and my goal to start a foundation to help other young families get past the shock and helplessness that comes with an ASD diagnosis.  We hope to use what we have learned to help others, that is what this world is all about, paying it forward.  With the success of this Go Fund Me page, it will propel us to start our foundation and make a huge donation to NECC.  

If you are able to make a donation please share it on your Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram accounts using the hashtag #TeamNate.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Stephen, Allison, Nathan, & Morgan Patenaude

"Do Not Dwell in the Past, Do Not Dream of the Future, Rather Focus the Mind on the Present Moment." - Buddha