Spectrum Super Star November 2016

As a mother of three boys, one of whom has autism, I wish I could be more involved with the great works of SPECTRUM Autism Support Group. These supports and resources are critical to families in the Gwinnett area and across the state who have a loved one with autism and the greater community. My son still talks about holding a duck from years and years ago, I’m sure he remembers her name, at his first SPECTRUM event that had a petting zoo. He had the best time!

I have had the honor of being invited to share learned strategies and resources as a parent advocate at several of SPECTRUM’s events. In Dahlonega, I had a great time co-presenting with Dr Daniel Crimmins on Positive Behavior Supports at a family retreat. It was rewarding to help families begin to understand that behaviors truly are a form of communication – once we understand the function, we can better direct positive behaviors. I had also been invited to present on my true passion of person centered planning to a larger group. My heart soared as parents and educators began to reflect on the gifts and capacities of their children/students’ vs the deficits in the diagnosis. I remember the presentation ending with families sharing of positive and possible opportunities in school, careers and post-secondary options!

I am most honored to have worked beside Claire Dees for the past few years at the Georgia Race for Autism. It has been hard work yet, oh so fun to support all the different races from 10K to the cute tot-trot. We are ever evolving in the processes for identifying race volunteers and getting them out to the race course! As I said – it’s fun journey and I look forward to many more years of collaboration on this community event!!

Thank you, Claire Dees, and the staff of SPECTRUM Autism Support Group! I thank you as a family member and as the State Director of The Arc Georgia! You do the hard work of going the extra mile to hold the hands of the families who are most in need. You walk with them though crisis to insure a positive outcome for all. With great appreciation, Stacey!

Spectrum says, Thank you Stacey for your contributions to Spectrum, especially with regard to the Georgia Race for Autism!