|
Support Adelyn's Adventure 
|
Adelyn's Adventure
Our sweet Adelyn is a spitfire with a heart of gold that wants to change the world. Girls are much more likely to be underdiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or diagnosed with autism later in life. Even with incredibly involved and proactive parents, this proved true for Adelyn. Despite early diagnosis and treatment for ADHD and anxiety, there still seemed to be something missing. At 9 years old, Adelyn received an Autism diagnosis, finally completing the puzzle. In addition to her mental health struggles, Adelyn has endured numerous chronic health issues in her short life. From severe asthma, a bladder disorder, a rare gastrointestinal disease, and more, we jest our family needs an apartment near Children’s Mercy for all our many appointments there. Adelyn has always had a fierce love of nature and animals. She watched a science video on palm oil, the world’s most popular vegetable oil, and learned palm oil is a major driver of deforestation, which leads to habitat loss and threatens wildlife. The video sparked a need for action. Soon Adelyn was checking all the food in our home to see if they contained palm oil. She discovered palm oil is in nearly everything. When checking her favorite dairy-free cookies, Adelyn was distraught to learn they also contained palm oil, so she made a video asking the company to stop using palm oil. The company received the video and replied three days later, telling Adelyn about their research for an alternative to replacing palm oil. Prompted by project requirements from her teacher, Adelyn researched more and discovered the palm oil issue was more complex than simply ending its use. She learned calling for more action is a step in the right direction. As such, she began writing letters to representatives, educating strangers on elevators, ensuring her family supports companies committed to sustainable palm oil practices, and contacting companies that are not to advocate change. Adelyn committed to being a personal steward for the environment through this project. In 2021, Adelyn was named the recipient of the President’s Environmental Youth Award for her palm oil project and for educating the community about its role in deforestation. Awarded by the President in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the award recognizes outstanding environmental projects by K-12 students. Adelyn is the epitome of hope for our planet. We are big believers that information is power. With the Autism diagnosis, we now have information to assist Adelyn. Adelyn becomes overwhelmed easily. She has difficulty sleeping, communicating, and in social interactions. An Autism service dog will support and aid Adelyn through these things that are major challenges for her. A service dog can act as a constant companion, help her improve social interactions, build confidence, expand communication, and decrease anxiety. We appreciate your generosity and support in our fundraising efforts. Sincerely, The Meyer Family Support Adelyn's Adventure |
|
|
|