When we first received our son’s autism diagnosis, a wave of anxiety washed over me. We had no idea what to do next—where to find help or even where to begin. The months that followed were filled with confusion as we tried to make sense of Ontario’s social support system for families living with autism. I didn’t realize there were different funding models and options for therapy and support. Instead, I found myself caught in a maze of waitlists, endless appointments, and late nights spent Googling things like, “What social services are available for kids on the autism spectrum in Ontario?” More than once, I thought, If only someone could just tell me what to do next.
A short time later, I preached a sermon where I spoke honestly about how lost we felt, trying to navigate the system, parent our young sons, and manage our emotions in the midst of it all. That very evening, I received a Facebook message from someone who had attended church that morning. She wasn’t a member, nor even an Adventist, but she had heard my heart and reached out to help. She worked with an interdisciplinary team supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and their neurodivergent needs. It felt like an absolute miracle. Because of her, I was connected with other parents walking a similar road—families who also felt the confusion, frustration, and deep desire to do the best for their children. Through those connections, we found not just information, but community and hope—community with other autism parents who shared years of experience and wisdom, and hope in knowing we were not alone. We are stronger together.
As Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” And as Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Beginning October 26 at 8 PM, and continuing on the last Sunday of every month, we invite parents and caregivers of neurodivergent family members to join an online support community. This will be a safe, welcoming space to share life, resources, and hope—because we are truly stronger together.
Zoom Meeting ID: 997 5351 6321 | Passcode: 474712
~ from Pastor Liz’s heart