Courtney Baggott

I'm walking 10,000 steps a day for Autism Initiatives

I am taking part in this autism walk for my 5-year-old daughter Ella — my reason, my motivation, my heart, and the strongest person I know. 

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person experiences the world, including communication, sensory processing, learning, and social interaction. For my little girl, this means everyday things many of us take for granted can be overwhelming, confusing, or exhausting. Simple outings, changes in routine, or being in busy environments can be incredibly challenging for her.

But autism is not something that needs to be “fixed.” My daughter is kind, loving, determined, and beautifully unique. She sees the world differently, and that difference deserves understanding, patience, and support — not barriers.

Every day she navigates a world that isn’t always built with her in mind. Autism shapes how she experiences the world — how she communicates, plays, learns, and connects — and while it brings challenges, it also brings incredible strength, honesty, and a beautiful way of seeing life that I’m so proud of.

By walking and fundraising, I am helping to raise money for essential services that support autistic children and their families. These funds help provide early intervention, education, resources, and advocacy, giving children like my daughter the best possible chance to thrive in a world that is often not designed for them.

As her mum, I will always fight for her — for acceptance, inclusion, and a future where she is supported to be exactly who she is. Every step I take is for her, and every donation helps create a more understanding and inclusive society.

Thank you so much for supporting us. Your kindness truly makes a difference 🩷