Mum out to raise funds to say thank you
A mum is raising funds to say thank you for the support given to her autistic son.
Amy Hossack had set out to raise £100 for Include ‘in’ Autism which runs weekly sessions at Downhill Centre, in Kilarney Square, and provides online advice.
But the mum-of-two has already surpassed her target and hopes to now raise £500 when she gives up alcohol for the month of October.
Her four-year-old son, Aaron Rochester, was diagnosed with autism in January 2017, aged three.
“Just less than a year ago I had my daughter,” said the 26-year-old, who is also mum to Poppy, 11 months.
“I have a son with autism and I was really struggling to find places to go.
“There were places in Newcastle, but she was too little which is when I found Include ‘in’ Autism.
“They’ve supported my son massively. If I’ve had any concerns they’re always there to give advice.
“They’ve been like an extended family to us, they’ve just helped us so much.
“Doctors would say Aaron is in his own little world, his own bubble, but the group have helped massively.
“Now he tries to engage and make eye contact with people. It’s really made an impact to him, it’s a massive part of his life.”
So far Amy, who works as a health care assistant, has raised £390 which will go towards the running of the not-for-profit organisation.
Founder of Include ‘in’ Autism, Marie Jevon, says the organisation supports 208 families across the North East.
It costs £5,000 a year to keep the sessions running and the money which isn’t fundraised comes out of Marie’s pocket.
She said: “We are desperate for more volunteers and we’re looking for anyone who can put time in.
“It’s unbelievable. I can never thank the volunteers enough.
“When I talk about them I get emotional, it touches your heart.
“Aaron has come such a long way. Amy is an angel in disguise, she’s one of the good eggs you meet in life.
“Aaron is one of out real success stories, they’re just a lovely family.”
Amy, who lives in Farringdon, will give up alcohol throughout October after coming up with the fundraising idea inspired by dry January.
She added:“One thing I do enjoy is a gin night with my friends and I’d seen a lot of fundraisers such as dry January to raise money.”
To donate visit Amy’s Go Fund Me page at www.gofundme.com/raising-money-for-include-in-autism.