Autism Workshop in Freeland Michigan

Yesterday was amazing! I love being with Autistic kids and families and I was already excited about being invited to the Great Lakes Bay Autism Fundraiser and Walk. BUT it was way better than I had anticipated. The group of adults and kids were so diverse and fun!

Ashley Blake (below) is a board member for the Autism Center. We met last year on our Walk & Talk Across Michigan event to raise awareness on abuse, bullying and violence. She had taken my card, and just last week gave me a call to ask if I'd like to come to their event and maybe do a presentation. She's an awesome person, it was so good to connect with her again!

Ashley (back left) smiling during the doggy presentation, while the kids have their eyes glued to me and the dogs. 

I shared my love for AUTISM, and Brian's story about how awesome he was. Born with Aspergers and a rare heart defect, doctors said he'd only live to be a year old! God miraculously healed him surgery after surgery and he lived to be 22! Sadly, that most of his years he was bullied for being different. Yet, he loved everyone, even forgave his bullies and wanted to help them. 

 It was a very heart touching moment and I got all choked up. But everyone was very patient and one boy asked what he died from. Another boy said "A shining Star!" Yes, Brian is definitely my shining star--my hero!

Before the workshop began, these college students paused for some pet therapy with the dogs! We were very short on volunteers for the day, so we chose to leave "Lover" home and only bring two dogs. And they were "pur-fect"!

It was great to see Snickers doing so well throughout the program. He was really loving the attention from the young woman (below) whose studying to be a social worker. She was wonderful with both dogs! Usually Baby Ruth shy's away, but not from her!

Snickers plopped down on the floor and chilled as the children gathered around him. He was born to be the "Bully Buster"! He's a true pet therapy dog!

Snickers yawns (below)! All the excitement has wore this 13 year old abuse rescue out! Not to worry, he loves attention and can sleep anywhere!

Still, the show must go on... Snickers napped through most of the speaking and interaction with the children.

BUT as soon as it was time for TRICKS n TREATS Snickers perked right up! And the kids and adults alike totally loved the show.

So many of the kids came up afterwards and thanked me and said, "That was a really fun program!" I think I had as much, if not more fun than they did! I like acting goofy and sharing a message that will touch the hearts of everyone listening, both young and old.

When the show ended, Snickers went right back into sleep mode. All in all, it was a fantastic day! 

Thanks so much Ashley for inviting us! Looking forward to coming again next year :)

NOTE: If you'd like more information about Lisa Freeman, Michigan Anti-Bullying Expert and Certified Pet Therapist and the diverse workshops she offers for all ages, please visit her website @ www.abusebites.com.