Lilli's Cruise with Autism of the Seas

Every day we live with the direct effects of autism. The challenges are great and require a constant devotion from each family member, with some days requiring more energy than others. Lilli has blessed us with so many wonderful moments but has changed the way we are able to approach events that others are able to do on a regular basis. Autism affects us as a family mentally, physically, emotional and financially.

The family vacations, that we have been on, have only been camping. As we didn't know if we would be able to do something like this with our daughter. Being able to travel is something we have always wanted to do with her. Give her experiences that everyone else is able to enjoy. By going on a staff assisted cruise, and having the help makes doing things so much easier. As they know the struggles and daily challenges that we face.

We always say Lilli is our tour guide. As everyday can be different, and she is in control. She loves learning new things, is always giggling and laughing, smiling, making animal noise, and singing. She lights up the room, and makes anyone day better.

Autism on the Seas is a non-profit company that allows families like ours to experience a vacation that at one time we would have imagined to be impossible. They arrange specific special needs accommodations with the cruise lines and they provide professionally qualified staff to assist us with expedited port check-in, meal assistance, pool time supervision, beach excursions, respite (time for [Lilli to be well cared for while the rest of the family can do other things), and many other perks and assistance. Autism on the Seas also provides pre-cruise professional consultation and valuable resources, including connecting with other families for support.

Thank you for helping us reach our goal and be able to show our Princess Lilli new things.
Mandi