Avenues for Autism shares the incredible journey of those we serve and whose lives have been changed thanks to our generous donors. We hope you enjoy our October 2026 issue of Exceeding the Limits!
If you’ve ever met Maleah, chances are she’s showing you a bug, making you her new best friend, or asking to pet your dog. She’s five, endlessly curious, and has never met a bug she didn’t like! She loves animals (especially chickens), fans, wind turbines, exploring the world, and connecting with people. She has a magical way of bringing others into her little world, and it’s a joy to watch her discover new things.
Maleah joined our family when she was just 20 days old. She was diagnosed with autism at age two and has a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance, also described as a Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) profile. PDA means that everyday demands and expectations can trigger an intense anxiety response, even when a person genuinely wants to do what’s being asked. Maleah needs to feel safe, have a sense of control, and build trust before she can fully engage in new experiences. As her parents, we’ve learned how important it is to find environments that work with her needs rather than expecting her to fit into a one-size-fits-all approach.
Swimming is one area where this makes a big difference. Learning to swim is about more than gaining a new skill for Maleah; it’s about water safety, confidence, and independence. Autistic children face a significantly increased risk of drowning, making access to appropriate swimming instruction especially important.
Finding the right program took time. Traditional lessons weren’t a good fit, but we finally found a place where Maleah can learn in a way that respects her needs: Goldfish Swim School! She’s supported in ways that help her feel comfortable, build trust, and grow more confident in the water while learning essential safety skills. Seeing her make progress without being pushed beyond her sense of safety to meet someone else’s expectations has meant so much to us.
Thanks to the Suzanne Tyner Autism Assistance Fund through Avenues for Autism, Maleah can access these lessons and develop skills that will serve her throughout her life. We’re incredibly grateful for this support. It’s helping a curious little girl who wants to explore everything, make friends everywhere she goes, and experience all that life has to offer to build the confidence and skills to navigate her world safely and independently. Most of all, it gives Maleah the opportunity to learn in a way that honors who she is, and that’s a gift that reaches far beyond the pool.
~ Story provided by Toni, Maleah’s mom
