Don Paelmo

Why I’m doing this

As many of my close friends and family would know, my daughter Hannah has ASD (autism spectrum disorder). We  suspected this early on just before she turned 2 years old, and my wife Amry and I have since been taking her to regular speech therapy and occupational therapy as well as ABA (applied. Behavioural analysis) therapy and early intervention therapy. Hannah received the official ASD diagnosis at the age of 4 and still continues her therapies, which has helped her greatly in her development. It’s not an easy journey, and Amry and I are still learning and understanding on how Hannah sees the world, and how we can support her in every way possible. 

Hannah is the very reason I’m doing this challenge for Aspect, so that we can do our part in raising and spreading awareness for Autism and promoting an inclusive world where people like her can thrive, use their skills and abilities and achieve their dreams. Thankyou all for your support.

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

Why am I running 70km this October? Because 70% of Autistic people face mental health challenges.

I’m running towards a more inclusive world where Autistic Australians have the opportunity to thrive. 

Please donate now and show your support to my fundraiser.  You’ll be helping provide early diagnosis, autism-specific education, and critical research into mental health issues experienced by Autistic people so they can access the support they need to realise their different brilliant®. 

You’ll also give me the motivation I need to log my kilometres as I go the distance throughout October. Donate now to show your support. 

Thank you!