My team
My team
Lurie Center for Autism/MGB
Total raised: $5,741.85
Goal: $37,500.00
http://raceroster.com/events/2024/83188/the-2024-asics-falmouth-road-race/pledge/team/608722My Story…
Twenty years ago, our family’s life was changed by an autism diagnosis. As we began navigating that journey, we were fortunate to meet extraordinary doctors, therapists, educators, and fellow families who provided guidance, compassion, and hope. Their support made an immeasurable difference in our lives, and I felt a deep desire to give back in a meaningful way.
That is why I volunteer to establish and coordinate the Falmouth Road Race fundraising team on behalf of the Lurie Center for Autism/MGB. This year marks my 12th year serving as Team Captain. While I am not running the race myself, I am proud to lead our fundraising efforts and support a cause that has meant so much to my family and countless others.
Today, autism affects more families than ever before. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 31 children in the United States is identified with autism spectrum disorder, highlighting the growing need for specialized services, resources, and family support. Each year, the Lurie Center cares for more than 4,000 patients with autism and related disorders at all stages of life.
For many families, an autism diagnosis brings not only emotional challenges but also the complex task of coordinating medical care, therapies, educational services, and community resources. Health insurance reimbursements cover only a fraction of the Lurie Center’s operating expenses, leaving limited funding for the Family Support Team. The Family Support Team provides essential guidance, advocacy, and support that help families navigate the often-overwhelming journey of caring for a loved one with autism.
As a volunteer-led fundraising effort, there are no administrative or overhead costs associated with my role, allowing every dollar our team raises to directly support the Family Support Team and the vital services they provide to families affected by autism.
Please consider making a donation of any size to support our team's fundraising efforts. Your generosity will help ensure that families facing the challenges of an autism diagnosis receive the guidance, resources, and support they need throughout their journey.
Thank you for your support.
-Tracey
Description
All funds raised through the ASICS Falmouth Road Race support the Family Support Team at the Lurie Center for Autism — a vital consultative resource that helps patients and families navigate the complex medical, therapeutic, and life decisions involved in caring for an individual with autism. Whether families have questions about insurance, educational services, adult programs, or sibling adjustment, the generosity of event donors ensures the Family Support Team is always just a phone call away. In addition to meeting one-on-one with families, the team responds to an estimated 7,500 calls each year and conducts more than 4,500 follow-up calls.
Autism diagnoses continue to rise, and the number of patients served by the Lurie Center is steadily increasing, with more than 10,000 appointments completed in the past year alone. Unfortunately, health insurance reimbursements cover less than half of the clinic’s clinical costs.
Charitable support is therefore essential to sustaining this work — and this year offers a unique chance to make an even greater impact. Thanks to the Nancy Lurie Marks Foundation, every donation will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling the power of each gift.
