In the United States, autism affects 1 in 88 children born each day, and it is the second most common development disorder in the nation. But these are only the numbers.

Today, on World Autism Awareness Day, hear the story of Junanya, who has a 2 year old son dealing with autism.

This summer she will be participating in “Walk Now for Autism Speaks,” which is the largest walk for autism in the country. Read how autism has affected both her and her son’s life and how you can help her, and many other families, find a cure.

Written by Junanya

Can you imagine hearing the words “your child has autism”? In a split second, life – as you know it – has changed.

That was me 2 years ago to know my son has been affected by this has really change everything. For a different family every 20 minutes, tomorrow will never be the same.

By participating in this event, you are helping to change the future for all who struggle with autism. By walking, you are getting us one step closer to finding what causes autism, how to prevent and treat it, and ultimately a cure so no family ever hears those words again.

Until then, we walk to find answers and raise awareness about the devastating toll that autism has had on families like ours.

I need you to help make tomorrow be about dance lessons, school lunches and first words rather than therapy, doctor appointments and despair. Together, we will find the missing pieces.

To donate, click the link below:

http://blba.us/i.asp?id=994646-353187707-1

Thank you for your support and donations.

Love, Junanya

To find out more about “Walk Now for Autism Speaks” and how you can participate, visit the organization’s official website.