St. John's Mercy Foundation

Andrew’s Angels Fund Fosters Autism Recovery

Autism affects an estimated one in every 150 births, according to the Autism Society of America. That means that about 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism – a complex developmental disability that inhibits normal communication skills and social interaction. A little over six years ago, Roger and Peggy Steinbecker were very concerned about one of them – their grandson, Andrew.

Andrew was diagnosed with autism before his second birthday. Early intervention was critical to ensure a healthy childhood, but the cost of therapy was something Andrew’s parents couldn’t afford. Thanks to financial assistance from his grandparents, Andrew received the therapy he needed. Today, he is an active third-grader who is able to play and learn as though he were never challenged with autism.

Roger Steinbecker explains, “Care for an autistic child is a sizable financial challenge. Fortunately, we had the resources to help Andrew. He is holding his own and no longer requires developmental interventional care. That’s why we decided to shift our support to St. John’s Mercy Foundation to support the Child Development Center.”

Roger and Peggy’s gift to the Foundation established the Andrew’s Angels Fund. They made a personal contribution and then asked friends and relatives to match their support with additional gifts. The support goes a long way to paying for the programs and equipment necessary for the care of autistic children. Last year, Andrew’s Angels helped pay for a therapeutic playground. Other funds have been set aside for scholarships for autistic children whose families do not have the resources to pay for the treatment.

“Andrew’s Angels has enabled us to significantly expand our treatment programs for autism,” says John Mantovani, MD. “We deeply appreciate the Steinbeckers’ support and their commitment to improving services for children and families affected by autism.”

“We have seen what early intervention can do for an autistic child, upfront and personal,” Roger explains. “Therapy helped make the possibility of a very normal life for Andrew a reality. We want others to receive the same positive result.”

Autism knows no racial, ethnic or social boundaries. According to the U.S. Department of Education, autism is growing at a startling rate of 10 to 17 percent per year. In the face of that growth, it is important to remember that children with autism can learn and function normally with appropriate treatment and education. Andrew’s Angels Fund will help some of them do just that.

Partnership with community members is vital to the continued success of
St. John’s Mercy Child Development Center. Your contributions can provide life-changing therapy not covered by medical insurance to autistic children whose families are unable to afford the cost of treatment.