As a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), I have the privilege of working closely with children, adults, and families in the autism community. Over the years, my role has gone far beyond helping people communicate—it has become a mission to advocate for understanding, inclusion, and respect for neurodiversity. This year, I decided to take that mission beyond the therapy room by running the Big Sur Marathon in support of the Organization for Autism Research (OAR). My goal is not only to raise funds for valuable research but also to shine a brighter light on the real experiences of autistic individuals.
Through my work, I have gained a deep understanding of the communication and social challenges that autistic people may face. Speech, language, and social interactions can present unique hurdles, but they also come with remarkable strengths, creativity, and perspectives that deserve to be celebrated. In recent years, after listening closely to autistic voices, I’ve realized that many communities still lack a true understanding of neurodivergence. This lack of awareness can make everyday life more difficult for autistic individuals—impacting not just communication, but also relationships, education, and mental health.
Why Awareness Matters Now More Than Ever
We are living in a time when conversations about neurodiversity are finally starting to grow, but there is still a long way to go. Autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Every autistic person has their own strengths, needs, and ways of experiencing the world. Unfortunately, outdated stereotypes and misconceptions continue to shape how people respond to autism. This is why raising awareness, guided by the voices of those with lived experience, is so important.
As an SLP, I believe education is one of the most powerful tools we have. The more we learn from autistic individuals themselves, the better we can provide support that truly respects their identity. For me, the marathon is more than a race—it’s a platform to share stories, open hearts, and encourage people to see autism through a more compassionate, informed lens.
Combining My Work With Advocacy
In my private practice, I work with clients of all ages. Some are learning to communicate through speech, others through assistive technology or alternative communication methods. My focus is not on “fixing” differences but on empowering individuals to express themselves in ways that feel authentic to them. This neuro-affirming approach means recognizing that there is no single “right” way to communicate.
When I decided to run the Big Sur Marathon for OAR, it felt like a natural extension of my work. The funds raised go directly toward research that can improve therapeutic strategies, educational programs, and family support systems. Every step I take in the race represents the steps my clients take every day as they navigate challenges, advocate for themselves, and celebrate victories—big and small.
The Marathon as a Metaphor
Running a marathon is a powerful metaphor for the therapeutic journey. Progress in speech and communication is often gradual. There are moments of triumph, but also stretches that feel uphill and exhausting. Like a runner training for months before race day, individuals and families in the autism community show incredible perseverance. They work through obstacles, celebrate milestones, and keep moving forward no matter how hard the road gets.
Every mile I run is dedicated to the clients who inspire me daily. Their determination reminds me that even when the journey feels long, the destination is worth it. The marathon allows me to honor their efforts while also bringing attention to the need for greater understanding, acceptance, and resources.
Supporting Families Along the Way
One of my biggest priorities as a Speech-Language Pathologist is supporting families, not just individuals. Autism doesn’t just affect the person—it impacts parents, siblings, and extended family members. Families often need guidance on how to advocate for services, navigate the school system, and find community support. I see part of my role as helping them feel less alone in this process.
By raising awareness, we also help families feel seen and understood. Many parents have shared that before they learned more about autism, they felt isolated and overwhelmed. With the right information and resources, that isolation can be replaced by confidence, advocacy skills, and hope.
The Power of Listening to Autistic Voices
One of the most important lessons I have learned in my career is that autistic voices should always lead the conversation about autism. Professionals like me can provide support and tools, but the lived experience of autistic individuals is invaluable. Listening to their perspectives has completely transformed the way I approach therapy. It has taught me to prioritize self-advocacy skills, sensory needs, and personal goals over rigid, one-size-fits-all expectations.
Raising autism awareness means challenging outdated ideas and replacing them with a more accurate, respectful understanding of what it means to be autistic. It means celebrating diversity rather than trying to erase it.
Neuro-Affirming Therapy: What It Means
In a neuro-affirming approach, the goal is not to make someone appear “less autistic” but to help them thrive as they are. This means adapting therapy techniques to the individual, respecting their sensory preferences, and encouraging self-expression in all its forms—whether through spoken words, sign language, AAC devices, or other means.
By advocating for neuro-affirming practices, we create a world where autistic people are valued for who they are. The marathon gives me the chance to talk about this approach in a public space, reaching people who may never have heard of it before.
Inspiring Others to Take Action
I hope my participation in the Big Sur Marathon inspires others to get involved—whether that means volunteering with autism organizations, donating to research, or simply learning more about neurodiversity. Change happens when people take small, consistent steps toward understanding and inclusion.
For me, running is a personal challenge, but it’s also a statement: that the autism community deserves our commitment, energy, and respect. Just as training for a marathon takes time and effort, creating a more inclusive world requires dedication and persistence.
A Personal Commitment to the Cause
I truly love my work as a Speech-Language Pathologist. Every day, I witness the courage, creativity, and resilience of my clients. Running the marathon is one way to honor them, but my commitment to raising autism awareness continues year-round—through therapy sessions, family consultations, community workshops, and advocacy efforts.
The journey toward greater understanding of autism is ongoing. By raising awareness as an SLP, I hope to not only improve the lives of the individuals I work with but also inspire others to join the movement toward acceptance and respect.