Stars for Dante Autism therapy fundraiser

Autism is a challenge for me and my family and we need your support!

Hi, my name is Dante Lindia. I was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of 2 which is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts brain development causing most individuals to experience communication problems, difficulty with social interactions and a tendency to repeat specific patterns of behaviour. I was also diagnosed with Childhood Speech Apraxia at the age of 5 which means that I need intensive speech programs every day to be able to learn how to make proper sounds.  While waiting 25 months on the waitlist to receive full-time Intensive Behaviour Intervention (IBI) my parents paid for private therapy for 6 hours a week for 2 years.

Why are we reaching out to you for support?

I am currently receiving 40 hours of IBI per week which costs  approx. $450 per day. It’s amazing how much progress I have made since I first entered the program one year ago.  I was non-verbal and communicating using an augmentative device and I am now semi-verbal, I have learnt my alphabet, how to count, brush my teeth, dress myself, play with my siblings and communicate most of my needs.

With recent government changes to the Autism Program, my IBI therapy will be reduced to 7 hours per month.   This decrease in hours will most likely cause regression and impede my development and speech.   Because of this change, my parents are hosting a fundraiser for me on May 4, 2019, at 7:00 p.m. at The Barley Mow in Stittsville. My family’s goal is to raise enough funds for me to receive therapy for another year. My progress over the year will increase my chances of changing my developmental outcomes.  All I want is to be able to join and interact with my peers and be able to function independently with little to no support needed. This early intervention will shape my future.  

Any and all donations are greatly appreciated, and will certainly help in my family’s commitment to raise funds. Every hour of therapy counts!  All proceeds will go directly towards my therapy.

Sincerely,



Dante Lindia