Autism Awareness

As Autism Awareness Month comes to a end, I want to take the time, once again, to share what I have learned about Autism, about Darren, and about myself.

Dear Darren,

   I Admire you.

     I Understand you more today than I did yesterday.

       I Try my best to trust and let you lead the way.
            I love you, I believe in you, I am so proud of you.
              Sometimes it's not easy but...
                Miracles are in the making.

Autism has made me more aware. Aware of the important things in life: a greater purpose, a deeper love, a stronger bond, a constant self awakening, and an appreciation of the simple things. Yes, maybe Autism has defined us, yet there are so many undefined people in this world searching for purpose. Yes, we are aware of Autism but I ask, "Is Autism aware of us?" because we are not backing down. Instead, we are living out loud. 

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Thanks to everyone who has supported, taught, and helped Darren. We are extremely grateful and truly want you to know that you have made a difference in his life. 

Thanks to RLC for providing a community in which I can be Darren's mom, a Teacher, and myself all under one roof. What a blessing.

I am confident that the future is brighter than ever. Shine on, Darren

Mr. Doral

What time is it???

It's time for another First Tee Event at Doral

 Doral is undergoing a major facelift. Trump's crew is hard at work.

 So is Darren!

 Thanks Coach Connie! Check out his grip!

Mr. Doral on a water break

So Proud

 Great job Everyone!

Peace out Doral

A Night Out at the Old Palm Golf Club

Another fun Els for Autism Event at the Old Palm Golf Club. The clubhouse hosted a "Back Nine" pairing experience featuring nine fabulous local restaurants and a selection of craft beers from Tequesta Brewing Company. The Clubhouse and grounds were gorgeous!!!!

Roger Dean and The Dieste's

Roger Dean Stadium 

2 Boys

2 Events

2 Cool

Every season JTAA schedules a parade of teams prior to the first pitch. Here's Trevor strutting his stuff!

Then very next weekend Darren was picked to throw out the first pitch in honor of Autism Awareness.  First we headed to Jumby Bay for a pre-game party. This again, was another Els For Autism Event.

or Hammerheads?

Marlins?

Let's Share

At the ballpark

 Final speed 41 mph!

The big moment:

 Darren was nervous but excited. He ended up throwing the ball underhand, but hey, maybe he takes after the softball side of the family:)

So Proud

Darren and Cole prepare for their big moment

And here's the wind up

Strike!

The First Tee Program @ The Floridian Yacht and Golf Club Sponsored by Els For Autism

The Clubhouse

The first day back after Spring Break, on National Autism Awareness Day, we leapt right into another adventure. As I buzzed for the attendant at the gates of the Floridian Yacht and Golf Club, I had no idea what we were in for. The gates open and we slowly drove down the perfectly manicured path...I thought, "Oh Darren Dieste, just look at the places you are taking us." I mean, there we were...at the course where Tiger Woods and the President had just recently played.

 He we are, amongst friends and supporters. Amazing.

WOW...this is so cool

Some helpful tips

Oh...I got this

Perfection

 This was an AWESOME event. We are headed to Doral at the end of the month for another First Tee/Els for Autism event.

I have always had big dreams for Darren, but I never imagined all of this.