For those of you that know us, you know that we live every day with the direct effects of autism. The challenges are great and require a constant commitment from each of us. We have really great days and some not-so-great days that can leave everyone drained and heartbroken. Our sweet Jenson has blessed us with so many wonderful memories, and I thank God for the honor He has given me in taking care of Jenson, helping him grow and learn. But living with the daily challenges of autism has changed the way we are able to approach outings and events that others do on a regular basis and probably take for granted.

I have planned a little vacation for me and my boys this upcoming August 2026 and am trying to raise money to help pay for a qualified aide to assist and support Jenson during this trip.

Autism on The Seas is a nonprofit organization that allows families like ours to experience a vacation that would otherwise be impossible. They arrange specific special needs accommodations with the cruise line and provide professionally qualified staff to assist us with expedited port check-in, meal assistance, pool time supervision, beach and shore excursions, respite time, and many other perks and assistance. Autism on The Seas also provides pre-cruise professional consultation and resources and connects us with other families on the ship.

I hesitate to ask for financial help; it is extremely uncomfortable for me to do this - but I am asking if any of our friends or family have it placed on their hearts to help donate towards the costs to have this assistance or even just share this post to please do.

We plan to go on a cruise with Autism on The Seas in the beginning of August, and having that extra adult aide to stick with Jenson and help with excursions, meals, swimming, etc., is really invaluable to me, as you can imagine. Taking a trip like this with all my boys would otherwise be impossible.

Thankful for all of you that are in our lives and anyone who has it placed on their hearts to help us or share this post!