Courtney Burrows

When my son was diagnosed with Level 2 Autism, it felt like the ground beneath me shifted. As a parent, you want to see your child thrive, interact with others, and navigate the world confidently. Autism, with its unique challenges, brought an overwhelming sense of uncertainty and fear about what the future might hold for him. How would he handle school? Would he make friends? Would he ever be able to express himself the way we do?

But as I researched more about autism and sought out resources and support, I learned that this diagnosis doesn’t define who my son is—it’s simply one part of the beautiful complexity of his identity. He is still the same bright, funny, loving little boy I’ve always known. The only difference is now we have a better understanding of how to support him as he navigates the world in his own way.

This May, I’m walking to raise awareness for autism, not just for my son, but for all individuals on the spectrum. Autism is often misunderstood, and myths about it persist in society. Some people still associate autism with severe limitations, but in reality, every person on the spectrum is unique, and their needs vary widely. By participating in the Walk for Autism, I want to be part of a movement that encourages greater understanding, acceptance, and support for neurodiverse individuals.

For my son, a Level 2 Autism diagnosis means that he needs more structured support in areas like social interaction, communication, and sensory processing. He may not always pick up on social cues or express himself in the ways others do, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have incredible potential. As a family, we’re committed to providing him with the tools he needs to thrive, whether that’s through therapy, special education services, or simply by fostering a nurturing environment at home. Every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.

This walk is also a personal commitment to my son. It’s a promise to him that I will always advocate for his needs, encourage his growth, and never stop working to make the world a more inclusive place for him. I may not have all the answers yet, but I will continue to learn, adapt, and support him in every way I can.

Autism is not something to fear—it’s a different way of being. It’s a way of thinking, processing, and interacting with the world that adds richness and diversity to our society. By participating in the Walk for Autism, I’m showing my son that I am proud of him exactly as he is. I’m walking for him, and for every child and adult on the spectrum who deserves to be seen, heard, and understood.