Popcorn & Pinecones

For some children this is the first time they're being exposed to the concept of autism. By accurately representing autism we can challenge incorrect stereotypes and help the autistic community feel more loved and excepted. Children should know that autism is not a disability but a different way of being.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that affects how individuals communicate and interact. No two people with autism are alike, it affects everyone differently. Autism is not a disease or illness, and you can't catch it like a cold. People with autism are born this way.There is no medicine that can cure autism. For some children this is the first time they're being exposed to the concept of autism. By accurately representing autism we can challenge incorrect stereotypes and help the autistic community feel more loved and excepted. Children should know that autism is not a disability but a different way of being. 100% of the book proceeds will go to The Eliza Hope Foundation to continue their mission so we can continue to offer specialized services, interventions and a therapeutic environment for autistic children and their families. April is Autism Awareness Month.

Aimee Darby was born and raised in the Virginia suburbs of Washington DC. In 2009 she met her husband Aaron and in 2012 their daughter Eliza Hope was born. At 16 months old Eliza was diagnosed with intractable epilepsy and autism. On November 11, 2016 Eliza passed away unexpectedly from sudden unexplained death in epilepsy. In Eliza's memory Aimee started The Eliza Hope Foundation whose mission is to provide therapies and programs for children and families affected by autism. The Eliza Hope Therapy center opened in June of 2018 and serves as a center that offers all the therapies needed for a child on the Autism Spectrum. Aimee lives in Virginia Beach with her husband Aaron, their adopted son Brantley and their 3 dogs Rosie, Penny and Roger. 100% of the proceeds from the book will go directly to The Eliza Hope Foundation so they can continue to support autistic children and their families.