Team Tibbetts

Steps for Spencer

This October, we’ll be running for autism awareness, but really this journey is about more than kilometres. It’s about celebrating our beautiful boy, Spencer, and speaking up for greater acceptance and inclusivity. ⭐️

While we don’t yet have a formal diagnosis, all signs point to Spencer being on the autism spectrum. For us, the label isn’t what defines him; his smile, his quirks, his strengths, and the love we have for him do. What matters most is making sure he has every opportunity, every bit of support, and a community that embraces him exactly as he is.

Every family’s journey with autism is different. Some days bring joy and breakthroughs, others bring uncertainty, exhaustion, or guilt. There are days when it feels like you haven’t achieved anything for your little person but then there are the moments of pure love and pride that remind you why you keep showing up.

As my husband so beautifully put it: “We don’t want to change him, he’s perfect. We just want to give him the best chance in life.” That’s why we’re running, speaking, and sharing because Spencer, like every autistic child, deserves to be understood, supported, and celebrated.

We’ve had our own struggles, from airlines where compassion was missing, to department stores where judgement came too quickly. In those moments, we’ve wished for more kindness, more patience, and more acceptance. This challenge is our way of helping to pave the way for Spencer and for others who cannot always advocate for themselves.

Every step we take this October is for Spencer, and for a world where difference is met with understanding, and where every child is celebrated for exactly who they are.

⭐️ We’d love for our family and friends to be part of this with us. Whether it’s a short walk with the dog, a stroll to the shops, or a little video message. Please share your steps for Spencer. Every show of support helps remind him (and us) that he is surrounded by love and acceptance.