Aired March 3, 2024: Autism affects about 1 in 36 kids in the US. It's a serious developmental disorder that impairs the ability to communicate and interact. Usually, it's diagnosed at a very young age. The range and severity of symptoms is different for each person. Katy Jackson is a Mom from Redondo Beach, who started the Local Autism Warriors Foundation in honor of her son Hendrix, and they are having a big benefit March 30th in Redondo that she wanted to tell us all about. In this podcast, Lisa Foxx talks to Katy about how her organization helps Moms and families like hers navigate the extra challenging waters of having a child with autism. Common symptoms include difficulty with communication, difficulty with social interactions, obsessive interests, and repetitive behaviors. But early recognition, as well as behavioral, educational, and family therapies can help reduce symptoms and support development and learning. They are having a big fundraiser with Surfer's Healing Foundation, who Katy has found to be a GREAT source of comfort for her autistic son 🙂

Benefit info: They are gathering at the Redondo Beach Elks Lodge #1378, located on Esplanade in beautiful Redondo Beach, CA. Living in the South Bay we understand the importance of the ocean and the benefits of getting in the water. Through this we event we plan to spread awareness about how Surfer's Healing Foundation has helped so many on the spectrum and continues to do so. They are so grateful IZZY PASKOWITZ, founder of Surfer's Healing Foundation, will be attending this event so be sure to say hi! Come enjoy a cocktail hour, dinner, live music, silent auction, and more March 30th in Redondo. All the info is here

Many children with autism struggle with sensory overload; in other words, simple sensations can overwhelm them. The weightlessness and rhythms of the ocean offer a therapeutic experience, a respite from the constant assault on their senses. Surfers Healing is the original surf camp for children with autism, and they've been serving the community since 1996. Attending our camps positively impacts children with autism; the experience helps instill confidence and calm. Yet over the years we've seen that Surfers Healing also has a profound impact on parents. Autism parents are always hearing about what their children cannot do. But at a Surfers Healing camp, it's all about what their kids can do. In the words of one volunteer, “For parents to see their kid up on a surfboard … sometimes, it's nothing less than a miracle.”