Walk 4 Sib Support

My story is like many others, I grew up in a typical tight knit family with Mum, Dad, me and my brother. The one difference being my brother has Autism with a severe intellectual disability. I like to think of it more as a different way of interpreting the world. Growing up with my brother definitely had its challenges, from spontaneously setting off fire alarms to multiple broken windows. He always kept me and my parents on our toes. However, there have been some truly special moments, such as when he gained independence by moving into his own assisted living place.

Of course there have been many funny moments such as the time he nearly pushed a budda statue down a flight of stairs, and dancing in front of many cctv cameras. Through out all of this we have been so fortunate to have the support of the Parent to Parent charity who I am hoping to raise money to support. They help parents with children with disabilities, and neurodiversity with resources, support and programs.

My personal connection to Parent to Parent is through their SibSupport program. The program brings siblings together for facilitated day workshops, games and structured conversations around life with a sometimes challenging sibling. The goal is to offer support from others with lived experience. I work as a volunteer as a SibLeader, as well as a Volunteer Facilitator of these programs.

Please check out their website for more information on the wonderful work they do https://parent2parent.org.nz