Heart of
Erin’s Way
Erin was pure light. She experienced the world in her own beautiful way, full of curiosity, joy, and love.
Though Erin was nonverbal, she communicated in ways that were deeply felt by those who knew her best. Her smiles, her laughter, and her quiet presence spoke louder than words ever could. She had a way of letting you know exactly how she felt—you just had to slow down and truly listen.
Erin loved movement, music, and all things sensory. She explored the world through touch, texture, and experience—finding comfort and joy in the little things. She especially loved her tactile toys, and one of the most meaningful symbols of her spirit is her stack of rings placed in her own unique, upside-down way. It was perfectly Erin. Doing things differently, and beautifully so.
Some of her happiest moments were ones of independence. We will never forget the first time she navigated a bounce house on her own. Her joy, her pride, and the excitement in that moment said everything she couldn’t put into words. Those were the moments that meant the most.
Erin had a way of bringing people together. She taught us patience, compassion, and a deeper kind of understanding. Because of Erin, we learned to listen differently. We learned to notice the small things, to celebrate progress, and to meet children where they are.
She also showed us where more support was needed. The challenges we faced in finding inclusive spaces, understanding environments, and meaningful resources became part of her story and now, part of her legacy.
Erin tragically passed away at just three years old, but her impact is immeasurable.
Erin’s Way was created in her honor, to carry forward her light, her love, and everything she taught us. It is built on the belief that every child deserves to feel seen, heard, supported, and included—not just in words, but in action.
Erin may not have spoken with words, but she changed lives in ways that will last forever.
WHAT WE STAND FOR
Sharing Knowledge, Healing Hearts
Erin’s Way was founded to be a guiding light for children on the autism spectrum and those experiencing the weight of grief. We believe that through shared knowledge and community wisdom, we can heal hearts and nurture minds, providing the inclusive sanctuary every child deserves to feel safe and loved.
A Journey of Love- Why We chose this path
When we went places with Erin, we quickly learned how overwhelming the world could be for her. Busy events, loud spaces, and constant stimulation often became too much, and we would have to leave. There was rarely a place for her to step away, reset, and feel safe again.
Our friends at Giving Back to the Community saw this and created sensory-friendly hours at events. That simple act meant everything to our family. For the first time, Erin had space to just be herself.
But even then, there was a challenge. Erin’s siblings wanted to stay, to be with their friends and enjoy the event like everyone else. Many times, that meant one of us, often Dennis, would have to leave early to take Erin home. Our family was constantly split between meeting everyone’s needs.
Now, as we navigate life after losing Erin, we recognize that same feeling of overwhelm in a different way. Grief can be just as consuming. Being around crowds, noise, and constant interaction can feel like too much—for us and for our children. There are moments when we still need to step away, to find quiet, to reset… but those spaces are just as hard to find.
When Erin was with us, we always came prepared. We packed weighted vest or blankets, fidgets, and sensory tools to help her regulate and feel safe. Today, we find ourselves packing many of those same items for our other children as they navigate grief.
What we have come to understand is that there is a powerful overlap between autism and grief. Both require patience, understanding, and space to regulate. Both deserve environments that are flexible, supportive, and compassionate.
Erin’s Way was created from this lived experience. Our goal is to build the spaces we once searched for and still need today. Spaces where children don’t have to leave, where families don’t have to divide, and where everyone is given the opportunity to feel safe, supported, and included.
Because every child and every family deserves a place to pause, to breathe, and to simply be
Calming Areas at Public Events
By including calming areas, events become more inclusive—ensuring that no child or family has to leave entirely, but instead has a place to pause, breathe, and feel safe.
Inspired by Erin's journey, Erin's Way was founded to create a sanctuary where neurodivergent children and those navigating grief are met with radical empathy. Our impact is measured in the quiet confidence of a child finding their voice and the steady healing of families moving through loss together.
The Heart of Our Impact
Healing In Community
Through shared experiences, compassion, and connection, we bring people together so no one has to navigate these challenges alone.
Resource Empowerment
Cost is often a barrier for families seeking support, especially during times of need. Erin’s Way is committed to removing that barrier by providing free resources, including sensory kits for children with autism and those navigating grief. We want to ensure every child and family can access the comfort and support they deserve
Join Our Community
Help us build a world of support for every child. Whether you connect with us or spread the word, your involvement creates hope for children with autism and families navigating the journey of grief.