We Walk for Tyler, Our Hero

Dear Friends and Family,

As many of you know, Tyler was diagnosed with having a mild form of autism in July 2008. Geoff and I waited so long for Tyler and hearing this diagnosis was extremely devastating. We have had to overcome a lot of fears, which are sometimes revisited when we have a regression or setbacks. I often look back on that period in our life and wonder how we survived and with a newborn. Since then, Geoff and I have made it our life-long mission to get Tyler the help he needs to be successful in life. He is currently receiving speech and occupational therapy each week and is enrolled in an inclusion preschool program at a local elementary school. He continues to amaze us with his progress. We have also tried diet changes and horse therapy to help Tyler. He is doing very well with all of his therapies and school, but still has a long way to go.

Geoff, the boys and I will be walking in the Greater Austin Walk Now for Autism on October 9 in honor of Tyler and to raise awareness and funds for autism research for Autism Speaks. One in 110 children is diagnosed with autism - one in 70 of those children are boys. This cause is so near and dear to our hearts and we feel the need to spread awareness and raise funds to help with research. The exact cause of autism is still unknown, so continued research is critical in finding a cause and cure.

We walk for Tyler -- he is our hero. He makes our world such a better place and has such a bright and shining personality. Everyone who meets him falls in love with him, he is just so charming! Tyler has overcome so many obstacles in his short life, yet is still the happiest little boy -- he always has a smile on his face. He loves to laugh, spend time with his family, play with his cars and tackle his brother. He tries to socialize with others, but sometimes in inappropriate ways. So this is one thing that we will continue to work with him in his therapies. Even with our struggles, we are incredibly blessed.

We would love for you to join our team and help us support this cause and support Tyler. The walk will be held at the Dell Diamond on Saturday, October 9, 2010 at 8:30 am. You can register and donate online at http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/austin/tgrumbles. Please help us make a difference. We know that all families are not as fortunate as ours; they need our help as they continue to search for answers and hope. Autism Speaks is investing millions of dollars to fund research into the causes, prevention, treatments and cure, so we walk to spread awareness and support continued research. We walk for Tyler, will you join us?

With Love and Gratitude,

Teresa Grumbles

Here are some links for you:

Team Tyler
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/austin/teamtyler

My Page
http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/austin/tgrumbles