November 8, 2008 Autism Awareness Gala: Part Two
The next guest speaker right after Litsa and I was the Canadians ex-coach Jean Perron.
Our speech fired up the crowd and then Mr. Perron gave a motivational speech to continue the crowd's enthusiastic involvement. He compared the Canadians 'family' unit to the families who have children with autism. The Canadians hockey team motivate and push each other to move forward in a postivie manner. This is the point he was making to families; to continue their postive outlook, to push and motivate their children in a positive and loving manner; to hold on to their family and work together.
Next in line was Senator Munson. His speech roared with humor and emotional words that touched everyone's heart and soul. Jim Munson had us in tears when he talked about his basketball days when he was 'six foot two'. One moment laughing and the next mesmerizing us with his compassion and heartfelt story about his son who passed away a long time ago. He referred to his son as 'his hero.'
As a parent I immediately reflected on my own children and what they mean to me. As parents we strive to do the best we can; to teach our children values they may use as adults. Parents who have children who are autistic are no different - although their task is compounded with therapies, their love to motivate and help their children is constantly in the forefront. This is the inspiration Senator Munson's speech instilled that night.
Senator Munson and Jean Perron in a heated discussion about...basketball? Hockey?
Guests checking out some of the items auctioned during the night. The Gala successfully raised $33,000 that night. Woohoo!!
Dr. Fombonne ended the night's speakers with an update on the services the Montreal Children's Hospital offers to families. He also mentioned an upcoming clinical research involving several entities, McGill from Montreal being one of them.
At the end of the night, all we had to say was "Wow! What an awesome and successful event this was."
Food was terrific.
Service was great.
Speeches were amazing.
But the best part is that all of us were able to spread some more autism awareness to one and all.
Thank you for reading. Stay tuned as Litsa and I embark on more Autism Awareness campaigns.
