Our son Samson was diagnosed with autism when he was 2 years old. He has many challenges, including being nonverbal, that require our constant attention and care. We love him completely and enjoy making memories with him, but his challenges make it difficult to get breaks or take vacations. Autism affects us as a family mentally, physically, emotional and financially. We have only had one true family vacation since Samson was born, our cruise with Autism on the Seas.
Autism on the Seas is a non-profit company that allows families like ours to experience a vacation that otherwise would be impossible. They arrange specific special needs accommodations with the cruise lines and they provide professionally qualified staff to assist us with expedited port check-in, meal assistance, pool time supervision, beach excursions, respite (time for Samson to be well cared for while the rest of the family can do other things), and many other perks and assistance. On our cruise we were blown away by the capabilities and support of the entire staff team. They took care of every member of our family, ensuring everyone got rest and had fun. Samson loved his cruise so much he already wants to go on another one.
We keep fundraising for our next cruise but our GoCruiseMe is not currently active do to Pay Off timing of the Cruise. Please reach out if you would like to help.