Crystal Skinner

Operation: eradicate tooth

The story already does the hard part—it’s funny and very recognisable, so I’d keep the CTA personal rather than suddenly making it sound like a fundraising ad. Something like this would flow nicely from your last line:

"Mum, my tooth hurts! It's wobbly!"

I take a close look at the culprit... the gum is inflamed and the tooth barely budges.

"Mate, you probably have some sort of gum disease. You need to brush better."

I say this with a sigh of resignation. Autism and good oral health don't naturally go hand in hand.

The tooth remains the main character of the day.

It's painful.
It's "wobbly".
It's causing a whole lotta whinging.

A few hours later I offer Panadol or Nurofen. I say to Jaie, "Nurofen might bring down the swelling."

He gives both.

Straight up. Like a man who is well and truly sick of hearing about this tooth.

15 minutes after the administration of the double dose, a voice calls across the house:

"Mum, my tooth came out."

No mate. Your tooth didn't come out.

You went in like a bear shoving his paw into a raging river to catch a salmon after a long hibernation. You showed that "wobbly" tooth who was boss.

"Mum... I... uh... ohhh... I don't feel so good..."

I call on Jaie to help our woozy boy downstairs to wash the blood off his face.

These are the glorious parenting experiences Autism gifts us. 😂

This one was actually a bit of a blessing because I CANNOT STAND looking at a wobbly tooth for too long.

And this is exactly why I Run for Autism.

Because autism is part of the funny stories, the frustrating moments, the things other families might never have to think twice about, and the little victories that probably don't look like victories to anyone else.

If you've ever laughed at one of my  parenting stories, followed along with our family's chaos, or simply want to back a cause that means a hell of a lot to me, please consider throwing a few dollars my way.

Now if you'll excuse me, apparently the Tooth Fairy has some admin to do. 🦷

Running for Acceptance and Awareness 💛

This year I’m taking on Run for Autism again, and it’s one that’s very close to my heart.

As a mum to two incredible autistic children, autism isn’t just something I’m raising awareness for—it’s part of our everyday life. It’s in the small wins, the challenges, the growth, and the constant learning. It’s navigating the world a little differently, celebrating progress that others might not always see, and advocating for understanding, inclusion, and support.

Aspect does such an important job in providing services, education, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. I’ve seen firsthand how vital that support can be—not just for children, but for parents trying to do their very best every single day.

I’m running to help create a more inclusive world for my kids and others like them. A world where differences are understood, supported, and celebrated.

If you’re able to support, donate, or even just share, it truly means so much 💛