Yay 100 Women Who Care Calgary!

Last night was a proud moment for me.  I am a member of 100 Women Who Care Calgary, whose events I have had the privilege and honour of photographing from the beginning.  They are a charitable organization started by my sister, Alison Lapczuk and her co-founder, Christy Parker one year ago.  Four times per year, we gather for 1 hour to hear about 3 local charities, vote for one and then ALL members write a cheque for $100 to the same charity.  

Last night, Alison's nomination came up and she took the opportunity to talk about an organization near and dear to my heart: the Specialized Autism Services (SAS) program at Renfrew Educational Services.  

My son, Caellum, took part in the SAS program from age 3 to 6.  Words cannot describe how much he benefited from this amazing program that brought therapists and aides into our home 5 days a week for 3 years.  Caellum didn't even walk independently until he was  2 1/2 years old.  Prior to his diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, he was described as being "Globally Delayed".  This meant that he needed support in every area:  Speech, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Psychology.  The team from SAS worked collaboratively to develop and implement strategies that would help Caellum do the things that came so naturally to my other children, like: playing, taking turns, using a fork, communicating.  At age 6, I finally heard my son say "Mommy" for the first time.  It brings tears to my eyes when I think of where we would be without Renfrew Educational Services and the SAS program.  

So, thank you 100 Women Who Care Calgary, for voting for SAS last night!  In just one hour, we raised >$10,000 for Specialized Autism Services, so that many more families like mine will get the support that they need in the critical years where the impact is greatest.  Thank you, Alison, for being a wonderful auntie.  Caellum is lucky to have you in his life, and so am I!  

If you would like to join 100 Women Who Care Calgary, or find information on chapters in your area, go to http://100womencalgary.com/.  

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