Melissa Bonnici

I’m joining the movement to Run for Autism. But I need your help.

Hey everyone, 

For all of you who know me well you will know 3 things are true:

1. I HATE running and usually this would only occur in the event something is chasing me.

2. I love my kids more than anything and would lift heaven and earth for them.

3. I HATE asking for help. 

I've watched over many years my son, nephew and some of their friends battle with the everyday. Simple tasks to us are a mountain to climb each day for them. From the buttons on the school shirt being to "buttony", to desperately trying to fit in socially, to be accepted with all of themselves without the need to mask, the need to not be too much just be authentically them. 

I watch as school is a battle for some, the need to conform, sit still and not be autistic or ADHD between the hours of 9-3. No child should be facing suspension because the school system failed them. 

I LOVE that my son wears his emotions on his skin, it makes him kind, compassionate and a really gentle soul often misunderstood by so many. 

I've learnt a resilience no one should learn raising this wonderful child he is my soul mate and I see all you parents out there doing the same! 

So it's time to do something hard, something to show support and show my son, my nephew and others that we are on their side and no matter how hard it gets, you can achieve anything. No parent should have to face mental health challenges from their child. 

The battle most days is invisible, invisible to everyone around them. 

I'm asking for support, a friendly check in to someone you know in a similar situation, a donation no matter how small will make a big difference. Even join in and run a few km's. 

Join Courtney Ross and I as we start our path to 35km maybe even more who knows.... The possibilities are endless just like they should be for our kids.