Featured Archives - KnowDifferent.net

A Letter To Marky On His 17th Birthday

January 24, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Dear Marky,

Today you turn 17. I cannot believe it. I truly do not know how the time has gone by so quickly. I also wish with all my might that I could slow it all down. The future scares me. I don’t think it scares you, you continue to live with the ability to love, be honest and see the beauty in all around us.

Cookin’ With Carissa- Sausage, Bean & Kale Soup

January 22, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

It’s been cold enough for soup! I love soup but my husband only likes them if it is super cold out.

I made this one and he said it was. my best yet! HA! It was yummy, hearty and healthy!

18th Annual Autism Society Central Virginia 5K & Family Fun Day

January 15, 2020 By Autism Society Of Central Virginia ASCV

The 18th Annual Autism Society Central Virginia 5K & Family Fun Day will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Stony Point Fashion Park.

This family-friendly event will include on-stage entertainment, a kids zone and fun run, a Resource Fair, food vendors, a competitive 5K, and more!

17 Gifts I’ve Gotten From My Son As He Turns 17

January 15, 2020 By Carissa Garabedian

Often, my writings focus on the areas I struggle with, or my areas of concern with raising our son who has Autism, Today, I am going to share some of the things I am can celebrate. This does not mean that my concern or worries are gone, just that, in this journey, I also have many moments that make me smile and teach me.

It is important to remember that all of our children, with any diagnosis, have many strengths and teach us every day. Getting that diagnosis is the starting point that helps to determine the path that will best help and then we learn that the path will change regularly.

Marky is turning 17 next week and I want to celebrate gifts he gives me and all that are lucky enough to know him.

Please Note- these “gifts” are all things I am learning, it does not mean I have mastered them nor does it mean that I don’t have setbacks, but I am working hard on applying them and reminding myself of them.

1. I am a better person. I have found inner strength I never knew I had and although I do not always know what to do, I know I will figure it out.

2. I am more patient. I take the time to think about how things may impact him, others and myself .

3. I have a much better perspective . I can see things more clearly.

4. I have found strength and a voice to be his advocate. I never thought I could or would stand up in ways I have had to and I am sure in ways I have yet to experience.

5. Through his purity and honesty, I have found the ability to see more good in others.

6. I have learned to not compete or compare. We all have our own path, no two are alike and we will all get there in our own time.

7. I have learned to set limits. Not only for him, but for me as well.

8. With Marky, everything can be celebrated. I have learned to celebrate the little things. It makes for smiles and a full heart.

9. I have learned to give myself a break. There is a lot of emotional stress and it is ok to take a break.

10. I have learned compassion, and boy do we need more of that. Marky sees everyone the same way , there are no differences.

11. I can easily say I am sorry. It is ok to be wrong and there is no shame in that. I also can forgive others more easily.

12. I have learned simplicity.

13. Marky is content with life, regardless of the circumstances. This continues to help me see more joy.

14. I am more accepting of who people are.

15. Struggles make me stronger.

16. I have learned not to take things for granted .

17. I embrace what makes him unique. It may be dancing in Target or starting to take pants down before the rest room.. all of these things no longer create stress for me. He needs me, I am here for him and that is that!

Every day Marky reminds me that anything is possible , we all have to try our best and his smile and joy will continue to be “my why”.

Cameron Gallagher Foundation Upcoming Workshops

January 15, 2020 By Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation

Mindful Mondays- register here

Led mindful practice for middle school and high school students. Held at Steward School’s Bryan Innovation Lab, as well as carefully selected locations throughout RVA to enhance accessibility to more children. Trained CKG Mindfulness coaches and local industry experts lead the practice.

Register for Jacob’s Chance’s INCLUSIVE FITNESS HEALTH

January 14, 2020 By Tricia Greene

Jacob’s Chance INCLUSIVE FITNESS HEALTH promotes overall wellness through sports, health and fitness education, and social interaction for individuals with intellectual and physical challenges. Our fitness program is designed for youth and young adults 5-30 years old.

Join ASCV for Autism Advocacy Day 2020 at The General Assembly

January 14, 2020 By Tricia Greene

A group of autism advocacy organizations are coming together to host an Autism Advocacy Day at the General Assembly on Monday, January 27th, 2020! Please join us for this important opportunity to advocate for legislation impacting local individuals with autism.

Heart And Mind Therapy Services Offers Free Phone Consultation / “Meet” The Team

January 12, 2020 By Heart & Mind Therapy Center

Free Consultation
15 minutes
Set a time to avoid phone tag – to ask questions or schedule an appointment, Call 804-307-2801 to arrange your appointment time.

MISSY HOROWITZ, LPC

You can reach Missy at
804-307-2801 x 702

Licensed Professional Counselor

Faison’s Accelerated Independent Learner program

January 11, 2020 By Faison Center

Accommodating students up to age 22, the Accelerated Independent Learner program is closest to grade level. The program is more academically rigorous than some of The Faison Center’s other programs, as it helps prepare students for community college or a four-year college degree program. The Accelerated Independent Learner Community serves students who are performing at or near grade level in one or more core curriculum areas.

Update From Autastic Avenues

January 11, 2020 By Autastic Avenues

Hi Everyone,

Autastic Avenues is making some exciting changes! Watch for info and events and in the meantime, you can always get in touch by calling 804-905-8245 or emailing autasticavenues@gmail.com for more information.