One might assume I’m referring to a pot of gold. The rainbow that I am referring to is autism spectrum disorder and my child, like so many others, is on the spectrum. To find my miracle, I look no further than my 9-year old son, Dorian. For the past several years, we’ve fundraised for his education. Sending him to special needs schools for the past three years has given him every advantage and opportunity for success, but has come at a cost of $119,500. Aware of others in a similar (or worse) predicament (some mortgaging their homes three times over), I knew there needed to be a change. Families affected by autism are being weighed down by numerous financial and emotional burdens. We can look away, throw in a life preserver, or we can jump in to save them. It’s that easy.

More fortunate than most, my son is “high-functioning”. Even so, the early years for our entire family were a living hell. I realize now that our experience was a blessing. From this experience, I have come to understand the urgent need to reach out and offer assistance to those who lack support and understanding.

Image of Christine Frances Poe of Rainbow Miracles ‘A Miracle at the End of the Rainbow’ is the first book of a 22-part book series focused on telling heartwarming, emotionally-charged stories shared by families affected by autism spectrum disorder. Inspired by my son, the book series offers support and guidance to parents beginning their journey with autism, one baby-step at a time. If the road ahead seems dark, we’ll help you find your way. We’ve been there, overcoming twists, turns, road blocks, hurdles, challenges and mountains. You are not alone! All you need in a rainstorm is a little light to find a miracle at the end of the rainbow. The idea is that the books will grow with families as their autistic children grow, offering guidance along the way.

I’m inviting families to contact me for more information should they wish to share their stories. We are also in need of corporate sponsors for the book. More information is available on the Rainbow Miracles website.

Interested in raising autism awareness around the world, Dorian is sending his autistic pet (stuffed) polar bear, Tikko, on an adventure around the world to raise autism awareness. Tikko takes with him a letter from Dorian, a “wishlist” of things he’d like to do while away, “flyers” to give to local residents (asking them to join us in raising awareness) and a little blue suitcase. On Friday, January 18th, Tikko arrived in Montego Bay, Jamaica! Join Traveling Tikko’s Facebook page and help us spread autism awareness around the world! All photos from Tikko’s trips are posted on his Facebook page.

We believe in paying-it-forward and will continue to advocate for other families like ours who live with autism. Please contact me should you wish to participate. Together, I know we’ll make miracles happen.

Christine Frances Poe
Rainbow Miracles – Raising Autism Awareness Together
2013