In February, Shanna Watts crossed the finish line in the Austin Marathon running her first half-marathon and raising $915 for the Autism Society of Texas. “I began running to take control of my health,” Shanna says, “so I can live a long, strong life and be there for my son, William, for as long as possible. When I realized I could raise funds while taking on this challenge, it sealed my decision. It meant every mile could make a difference beyond just me.”
William is Autistic and nonverbal but Shanna describes him as having a big personality. “While he may not use words to communicate,” Shanna shares, “he speaks volumes through his strength, his resilience, and the love he brings into our family every single day.” When Shanna created her marathon fundraising page, she was nervous about her goal of $500. Her family had only lived in their small town for less than a year and she didn’t have many local ties. She was also hesitant about posting her 7-year-old son’s photo online but knew that was the best way to connect with others. After sharing her campaign in several social media groups, Shanna was shocked when she quickly reached $500 in donations.
William’s photo turned out to be the key to her success. People she didn’t know recognized William from encounters with him and his big personality in the community and at his school. Touched by the generosity her son had inspired, Shanna knew she could do more and increased her goal to $1,000. The funds she raised will be used to provide guidance, support, and advocacy for people with Autism across Texas and, as Shanna wrote on her fundraising page, “ensure that children like William are not just seen, but valued – and that families like ours never feel alone.”
Congratulations on completing your first marathon, Shanna, and for being a champion for everyone in the Autism community!