04/04/2026
There are some things in life that change you, and then there are the ones that completely reshape your heart.
Over the last few months, our family has been learning, growing, and seeing the world through a different lens after Austin was diagnosed with autism.
He’s almost 3, full of energy, always moving and always exploring. He laughs, he smiles, and when he giggles, it hits you in a way you can’t explain.
And while he may not say “I love you” in the way most people expect, we feel it in a hundred other ways every single day.
We’re learning that autism isn’t something that defines him; it’s part of what makes him who he is. And like someone told us early on, “When you meet someone with autism, you meet ONE person.” Every child is different, and every story is different.
What we’ve also learned is that this journey comes with a lot of unknowns and a lot of questions, along with moments that can feel overwhelming. But it also comes with a deeper appreciation for the little things, the quiet moments, the connection, and the growth you don’t always see right away.
Austin attends Caravel Autism Health, and we’ve seen firsthand the impact they have not just on him, but on families like ours who are trying to understand, support, and give their child the best path forward.
So, this night is personal for us.
On Monday, April 6th from 4–9 PM at BBQ’d in Third Lake, we’re hosting our first Autism Awareness Fundraiser Night.
10% of all dine-in food sales and $5 from every BBQ’d t-shirt sold that evening will go directly to Caravel Autism Health.
We invite you to bring your family, sit down, enjoy a meal, and know that by simply showing up, you’re helping support kids like Austin and so many others who are on this journey.
This chapter is still new for us, and we’re learning as we go. But if there’s one thing we know, it’s that we don’t have to do it alone, and neither do other families.
We’d love to have you with us that night. 💙
