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I confess....I'm jealous. I wish those who have been afflicted with Autism had an organization to turn to for help, advice, and most importantly monetary support. St. Jude's Hospital is an outstanding resource for those with pediatric cancer. Jerry Lewis has dedicted his life to help those with muscular dystrophy. A sister ,forms an organization in honor of her sister whose life was cut short by breast cancer...Susan B. Komen. Relay for Life, Diabetes Walks, etc.

What about Autism?

Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the U.S. Today, autism is more common than juvenile diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis or childhood cancer. Most know the statistic...roughly 1 in every 150 American children is diagnosed on the autism spectrum. According to author and autism advocate Linda Davis, "Assuming that rate holds, by 2016, less than a decade from now, that number of American adults (those 22 and over) with autism is expected to be nearly 1.5 million. The costs to society and to American families will be staggering."

Instead of letting my jealousy fester I have decided to do something about it. I have a dream...a big dream...and I want to make a difference. I want to help KISS Autism Goodbye. I came up with this idea over lunch with my sister. She just recently became sales director for Mary Kay. I was sharing with her my desire to raise awareness and support for those families who have a loved one diagnosed with Autism.

A MAXIMUM of $80,000 a year – that’s the cost estimated by the Autism Society of America (ASA) for the average parent or family to look after an autistic child in the United States. This figure covers the cost of “modern” treatment such as early intervention, physiotherapy, speech therapy, behavioral therapy and others. Most insurance companies provide little coverage for these therapies and many (like us) have to pay out of pocket to provide the NECESSARY services for our children.

It does not include the family’s other cost of living expenses, such as transportation, house rent or mortgage, food and schooling for their other children.

With one small purchase of a lip product you can help in a big way! From now until September 19th please visit www.marykay.com/jennifernash to pick out your favorite color (and/or product) and express your beauty both inside and out. Portions of the proceeds will be donated to the Autism Society. If you would like more information about Autism or how you can help me KISS autism goodbye, please feel free to contact me at 309.964.1006