Take a Hike Townsville

Fundraising Goal: $0.00
Funds Raised: $50.00
I am Walking!
Distance: 42 km Relay (4 Members)
Biography
My daughter Chloe was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2.5 years. This was a diagnosis I did not expect, as I just assumed losing her words was a phase she was going through. She had become increasingly distant and preferred to play by herself rather than join in with group activities at daycare. Chloe appeared to be living in her own anti-social bubble.

It used to break my heart as a mum to reach out to hug or comfort my daughter only to be screamed at or pushed away time and time again.

After Chloe lost her words, she became increasingly frustrated and would often lash out at family members and have regular meltdowns if her needs were misunderstood. We all found ourselves walking on eggshells so as to not upset her which would often result in Chloe screaming and head-butting the concrete (the carpet didn't give her the physical stimulation she was after).

Over the last 14 months, Chloe has attended AEIOU here in Townsville 5 days a week. The change in Chloe has been nothing short of remarkable. The occupational, physio and speech therapy she receives daily has turned my daughter from a highly frustrated toddler, whose main form of communication was screaming, to a little girl with confidence and purpose.

Chloe turns 4 at the end of March, and although she is still unable to speak in sentences, AEIOU have helped her find a way of communicating so her voice can be heard.

The staff at AEIOU have become a second family to Chloe, and I will be forever grateful for their efforts in giving me back my little girl. By Taking a Hike this June, it will be away for me to show my appreciation to AEIOU and raise funds for this very worthy cause.