Damien Byrnes

I'm walking 7km a day this May to support Autistic Australians

This May, I’m walking with purpose, with pride, and with all the love I have for my son, Koa.

Koa is 3 years old.

He has Level 3 non-verbal Autism.

And he is perfect, just as he is.

Every single day, Koa shows me strength in the smallest moments  in the way he lights up at music, in the way he reaches for connection in his own beautiful way, in the way he keeps going, even when the world feels too loud, too fast, and too confusing.

But the truth is the world isn’t designed for kids like Koa.

And that needs to change.

Did you know 70% of Autistic Australians experience mental health challenges?

Not because of Autism itself  but because society often isolates, misunderstands, or excludes them.

That’s why I’ve committed to walking 7km  a day in May for Walk for Autism, raising vital funds for Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia).

Because we need earlier diagnoses.

We need support that’s tailored, not standard.

We need education systems that adapt to our kids, not the other way around.

And we need inclusive communities where Autistic people can thrive  not just survive.

I’m walking for Koa.

For his future. For his voice even if it’s not spoken.

And for every family learning how to advocate, love, and fight for their child in a world that often doesn’t see them clearly.

Every step I take is full of hope.

And every donation brings us closer to a world where difference is not just accepted, but deeply valued.

Please donate if you can. Walk beside me. Help create a future where Autistic people like Koa are celebrated for exactly who they are.

Thank you for your support ❤️