Jennifer Kashinejad doesn’t take things sitting down. As a long-time friend, I’ve watched admirably as she has gone to the General Assembly, Washington, and will take her story just about anywhere to ensure that peoples’ rights for health care related to kids on the autism spectrum are honored.
After Aden was diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum, Jen and her husband, Doni, quickly realized that so many of the treatments Aden needed were not covered by their group healthcare. Jen has gone on to fight for Aden’s rights as well as kids all over the country, and has become a staunch advocate. We are so proud of Jen for all that she has done, and think she is an incredible Richmond mom! She organized our Autism Speaks walk team, raising most of the funds at a local hot-dog sale! 
Jen has also become a great resource for other Richmond moms working through the challenges of getting their children the education and resources they deserve. For this, we have made Jen October’s Richmondmom.com Rockstar! We’re so proud of you, Jen!
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Below is a letter from Jennifer:
Aden Kashinejad is 4 years old. He has blond hair, green eyes and the most beautiful smile you will ever see. He loves swinging and sliding, balloons, books and anything to do with water. Looking at Aden you would never know that he has a debilitating disorder known as Autism. Autism affects every aspect of Aden’s life…and the lives of everyone around him. Aden was diagnosed with Autism just before his 2nd birthday. As you can imagine, receiving a diagnosis such as Autism is devastating. We were heartbroken and terrified for what the future would hold for us and more importantly for Aden. Initially, the journey seemed long and extremely lonely. But, as Aden progressed and we became more informed, we realized that Autism did not define Aden and that by involving our family and friends in our journey, the load would become more bearable. Aden has come a very long way since being diagnosed with Autism. He is above where he should be academically and he is much more interested in engaging with others. But for all of his intelligence, Aden still has very limited speech, trouble interacting appropriately with others and has trouble processing the world around him. Autism is a complex brain disorder that often inhibits a person’s ability to communicate, respond to their surroundings or form relationships with others. Autism spectrum disorders affect people of all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and occurs in as many as 1 in 150 births, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, aids and down syndrome combined. And the numbers are still rising!! Currently the cause for autism is unknown and there is no known cure.
But there is HOPE! Studies show that with early intervention and intensive therapies, like Aden has had, many children with Autism can grow to lead independent lives. However, therapies are incredibly expensive and are not covered by insurance and funding for research is woefully inadequate. Only through continued and increased biomedical research will we ever understand what causes autism and develop methods for diagnosis and treatment. Someday, with your help, we know we will find a cure and children, just like Aden, will be able to live happy and independent lives!
That is why as a family, we have decided to make an effort to increase autism awareness. This year I, along with family and friends will participate in Aden’s honor in the Inaugural Richmond Walk Now for Autism. The Walk will be held at Richmond International Speedway on October 3, 2009. There are so many ways that you can help our cause. You can choose to sponsor “Team Aden” in the event with a tax deductible donation or walk with us. The proceeds of the Walk will be used to support the efforts of Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks is the largest non-governmental supporter of autism research in the United States. If you are interested in finding out more about them, please check out their website www.autismspeaks.org. Please help us raise money for this extremely important cause by increasing awareness among your friends and coworkers. We realize that there are many charities that vie for your attention, but any contribution, large or small, will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for your consideration, support and prayers. It means more to us than we could possibly express.
Jennifer, Doni, Aden and Kaleb Kashinejad
