Parents of Amazing Children - Central PA Support Group

My name is Kim, and March 10, 2010, is a day I will never forget. On this day, my daughter
was diagnosed with Autism. I knew my life would never be the same. As I drove home from
her appointment, I felt so alone. Would she ever be able to live on her own? Would she ever
get married and have children? Would she be able to hold a job? As the tears slid down my
face, I looked at my daughter, and knew that no matter what, I was her mother and her biggest
advocate in life. Since this day, there have been more diagnoses added to her list, but she is
still the same daughter I love with all my heart.

I wanted someone to talk to, another parent, who was in the same situation, as I was. Where
would I find this person? I searched, but could not find a support group close to my home.
I met another great parent, whose son also had Autism, who also felt the need for similar
support. East Shore Baptist Church was gracious enough to let us use its facility to start a
support group. Our first meeting was in November, 2010. We are looking forward to more
meetings in 2011.

This support group is for parents, caregivers, family members or friends, who have a child with
special needs. It is not just limited to children with Autism. We want to provide a forum for
individuals to come and share their concerns, sorrows, and especially joys! This support group
widely encompasses children of all ages, with special needs which are psychological, physical,
and behavioral.

We typically meet once a month on a Saturday from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. The meetings are also
usually on the second or third Saturday, please check the church’s calendar on its website, for
the monthly meeting date. Tentatively, the next scheduled meetings are March 12, 2011,
April 16, 2011, and May 21, 2011.

Recently, a West Shore Parents of Amazing Children Support Group was started. Meetings are
held on the last Friday of the month, at the Wellness Center affiliated with the Carlisle Regional
Medical Center. Should you have any questions about either support group, please contact Kim
Buckley at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; or Nicole Cekovich at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .