Sixteen years ago, when I found out I was pregnant, my husband and I were overjoyed. When we learned we were having twins, our joy more than doubled despite the prospect of twice as many feedings and diaper changes.

Our babies, Giancarlo and Vito, seemed to be thriving in the first few months. But then we noticed they were missing milestones. They weren’t making eye contact or rolling over. Our pediatrician assured us this wasn’t anything to be alarmed about. But I knew something was wrong, call it mother’s intuition. At 18 months, when neither boy was speaking, I knew it was time to speak up for them.

My name is Carla Vicari, and I'm the mother of two teenage boys who are autistic. It’s been a long and challenging journey, but thanks to Kessler Foundation, research is leading to new tools and strategies to help kids like Giancarlo and Vito succeed as they transition into adulthood.

There’s still much more work to be done to help families like mine.

When Giancarlo and Vito were first diagnosed, I was angry, frustrated, and shed countless tears. But eventually, I realized that they were simply on a different path. Early intervention, special services, and individual education plans became my world. Through trial and error, I found the best programs for both boys. We overcame countless roadblocks along the way, mainly because I refused to take 'no' for an answer. I became my sons’ fiercest advocate.

I like to think the boys inherited my perseverance. Thanks to the Kessler Foundation’s KF-STRIDE program, they’ve worked hard and are ready for the next step in their journeys.

KF-STRIDE, Kessler Foundation Strength Identification and Expression, helps young people on the spectrum and with other learning and thinking differences understand their strengths and advocate for themselves during job interviews and at work. Learning about KF-STRIDE was a game-changer for our family. Rather than trying to fix their weaknesses, this unique program encouraged Giancarlo and Vito to identify, embrace, and build on their strengths.

Their confidence and self-awareness have soared. They’re now proud of their potential, and they feel better prepared for college, the workforce, or whatever life ahead has in store.

As parents, we always want what’s best for our children. We want them to be healthy, happy, and successful in whatever they choose to do. That means giving them the tools, encouragement, and unconditional love they need. It also means never giving up.

Thanks to Kessler Foundation, people like my sons can increasingly reach their full potential.

I’ve learned that parenting, like research, demands that we rely on our instincts, follow the science, and explore every opportunity to ensure the best possible outcomes for our children and families.