We’ve all heard the age-old saying, “You can’t understand someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.”

It’s a great lesson in empathy, one that has stood the test of time. Today, I've committed to walking 100 miles, in 100 days or less, for the children and families that rely on services provided by The Florida Center for Early Childhood.

As the Marketing & Development Manager for the organization, I could tell you 100 success stories of clients that have benefited from the life changing services provided by The Florida Center. I could share the stories of an autistic boy who learned to speak, not one, but TWO languages through speech/language therapy; a young girl who could barely sit up, but can now walk several steps because of the occupational therapy she received; a “problem child” who just graduated high school with both academic & athletic scholarships, a feat he attributes to early intervention.

However, the story I’m most familiar with is my own. My child had severe developmental delays when he came to The Florida Center. However the speech/language, occupational therapy & social emotional support he received from therapists & teachers at The Florida Center changed the course of his development. Today, he is on par with children his own age and eager to start kindergarten at elementary school on time. 

I’ve learned a lot as an employee and client of The Florida Center. I’ve learned that my son’s bad behavior in the past was most likely a result of his frustration; that he wasn’t trying to be manipulative – he was trying to be heard. I’ve learned that yelling doesn’t get the same results as a big hug and honest conversation. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be frustrated, being a parent is hard! 

Working at The Florida Center has not only made me a better mother, it’s made me a better person.

So I ask that you join me in helping to raise money for this amazing organization. Walking 100 miles is my way of showing my support for the many children & families in need and trying my best to understand what they are going through.