Jaci Velasquez Walks for Autism

Jaci Velasquez
Rather than curling up in a ball and deciding that one personal battle was enough, she headed straight to the front line, teaming with Autism Speaks to speak up and speak out for the organization that works so hard to help those families impacted by autism. She became the official spokesperson for 2013's Tennessee Walk Now fundraiser. "Coming to terms with a child's diagnosis, especially when it's your child, is not an easy thing to do right off the bat," Jaci said in a press release. "We are all living in a society where labels hold a significant amount of influence. By associating with Autism Speaks, I can champion an advocacy organization that sponsors autism research, hosts awareness and outreach activities for families and the public, and is working to change the way the nation looks at autism."
"I am honored and humbled to take on the responsibilities of being the spokesperson of 2013," she continued. "Although the emotions that I am feeling are unfamiliar and uncharted, I find comfort and unwavering support through my faith, family and both old and new friends alike."
Velasquez represented Autism Speaks Tennessee at several major fall events, including the Autism Speaks Kick-Off Celebration, the Autism Speaks Presents Autism Sings! concert, and the Autism Speaks Tennessee Walk Now fundraiser in Nashville, Tennessee, which raised $120,963 when it was held on October 5, 2013.
As she learns first-hand what the challenges of having an austic child are, she becomes more determined to find the joys as well. "What Zealand has taught me, and continues to teach me each day is that societal labels don't mean a thing," Jaci shared. "I see and hear 'genius' when I read and hear 'autistic'. Being diagnosed with autism is to be presented with an original gift. My mission is to harvest the gifts that Zealand has been given and not overlook them. I will not overlook Zealand's gift, and I want to encourage everyone else too...DO NOT MISS THE GIFT!!"
Tags : Jaci Velasquez Autism Salvador
Hot Trends
-
Forrest Frank & Crowder Release New Collab “The Rock”
-
Comedian John Crist Announces Engagement to Lydia Fielder
-
Cory Asbury Apologizes to Forrest Frank, Emphasizes Grace and Growth Amid Viral Song Trend
-
Chris Rice Maintains Public Silence Following Abuse Allegations; Focuses on Writing and Speaking
-
What We Know About "American Idol" Winner Jamal Roberts' Faith
-
ChristianXXII & DEON Unite on Dynamic New Single "10,000 Hours"
-
Joel Vaughn's "Testify (Radio Version)" Delivers a Powerful Anthem of Faith and Perseverance
-
Here Are the Lyrics to Passion's "Follow"
-
Critically Acclaimed SKETCH Now Available for Streaming
-
Hillsong's Marty Sampson's Startling Revelations About Brian Houston & His Own Marriage
-
Josiah Queen “Mt. Zion” Album Review
-
Joy Williams Reveals the Real Reason Behind Civil War's Breakup
-
Tasha Cobbs Leonard Announces "The Whole & Free" Tour
-
Justin & Trisha Davis To Release New Book "One Choice Away From Change" March 4
-
Zane Walls Announces New Single "Dry Bones"
Most Popular
-
Forrest Frank & Crowder Release New Collab “The Rock”
-
Comedian John Crist Announces Engagement to Lydia Fielder
-
Cory Asbury Apologizes to Forrest Frank, Emphasizes Grace and Growth Amid Viral Song Trend
-
Chris Rice Maintains Public Silence Following Abuse Allegations; Focuses on Writing and Speaking
-
What We Know About "American Idol" Winner Jamal Roberts' Faith
-
ChristianXXII & DEON Unite on Dynamic New Single "10,000 Hours"
-
Joel Vaughn's "Testify (Radio Version)" Delivers a Powerful Anthem of Faith and Perseverance
-
Here Are the Lyrics to Passion's "Follow"
-
Critically Acclaimed SKETCH Now Available for Streaming
-
Hillsong's Marty Sampson's Startling Revelations About Brian Houston & His Own Marriage
-
Josiah Queen “Mt. Zion” Album Review
-
Joy Williams Reveals the Real Reason Behind Civil War's Breakup
-
Tasha Cobbs Leonard Announces "The Whole & Free" Tour
-
Justin & Trisha Davis To Release New Book "One Choice Away From Change" March 4
-
Zane Walls Announces New Single "Dry Bones"