PieceWalk Ambassadors

What does AutismOklahoma and the PieceWalk mean to your family?

When you have a child diagnosed with autism, it can feel very, VERY overwhelming. While they’re young, it does feel like there are a lot of resources and support between therapy options and special facilities built for those with special needs (our family has been blessed to find a loving community here in OKC), but as those kids get older, you start to wonder “what now?!” And that is why I love AutismOklahoma – they continue to provide an avenue for our loved ones as a lifelong connection. And you really get to see that come full circle every year at the PieceWalk in a fun and interactive environment with TONS of resources and activities for the whole family.

Why do you have a PieceWalk Team?

I have gotten to work closely with the AO office and have loved getting to know them – and that connection turned into a PieceWalk team! I had no idea everything that they do for the Autism community and am so happy to support such a great organization.

Why should other families form a Team and get involved?

Honestly, if nothing else, it’s a LOT of fun! And you’re supporting a great cause. While I mention there are a lot of resources, people don’t always know about them! Coming to the PieceWalk and starting a team are one of the best ways to support, not just monetarily, but also to help with awareness of and for our community.

What is your favorite part of the PieceWalk?

Getting to lead the walk, of course! While it was initially overwhelming for Grace, you all did all you could to make her comfortable (including bringing Moana to meet her – one of her favorite Disney characters!), she loved getting to ride in the golf cart with her family. I have a nephew who is also on the spectrum, and he had more fun than she did because he got to ride with us! It was honestly a highlight of the entire year. And we’re coming for that spot again this year! ;D

The vendors! So many fun, engaging booths!! We saw so many families having fun and Grace enjoyed seeing her therapists from Therapy & Beyond! She got all the hugs and love. Chicken N Pickle’s booth was also a lot of fun – they did a great job engaging with all of the attendees and have been a great partner of the Autism community (just had to give them a shout out 😉

Tell us about Stella

She is an 8-year-old quirky, independent nonverbal outspoken in her own language. Loves to sing, dance and draw. Her favorite snacks are popcorn and donut holes. Favorite movie right now is Trolls she loves Poppy. She is also in training with her service dog Finn.

What does AutismOklahoma and the PieceWalk mean to your family?

This means a lot to us to bring awareness to other families and support each other in our Autism community.

Why do you have a PieceWalk Team?

We have our Stepping for Stella team to help raise money for AutismOklahoma and to bring awareness to friends and family.

Why should other families form a Team and get involved?

It is important for other families to get involved to help with awareness and gain knowledge and help support each other.

What is your favorite part of the PieceWalk?

All of the information vendors and Kidz Zone, and of course the walk.