Why We Walk for Apraxia: Nolin's Story

Nolin was officially diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) in April 2024. Since then, our family has worked tirelessly to advocate for him and for every child affected by apraxia.

I walk not only to support all children diagnosed with apraxia of speech - our incredible Apraxia Stars - but also because I am an Apraxia Mom.

Childhood apraxia of speech is a motor speech disorder. Children with CAS often know exactly what they want to say, but their brains have difficulty planning and coordinating the movements needed for clear speech. Every word can require tremendous effort, patience, and practice.

Nolin's Journey

During the school year, Nolin participates in daily speech sessions, receives additional support at school, and attends another 45 to 90 minutes of outpatient speech and occupational therapy. By the time he gets home, he has already worked incredibly hard. He wants what any first grader wants: time to play, have fun, and simply be a kid.

His determination continues to amaze us. Nolin has made tremendous strides, especially between the beginning and end of kindergarten. By March 2026, everyone around him could hear how much progress he had made. He was speaking more clearly and using sentences!

Every new sound, word, and sentence represents countless hours of effort. His progress would not have been possible without the amazing people who support him both inside and outside of school. We are deeply grateful for his teachers, therapists, family members, friends, and everyone who encourages him along the way.

It truly takes a village.

Why This Walk Matters

We walk to show Nolin and every Apraxia Star that they are not alone. We walk to recognize how hard these children work to overcome communication challenges that affect their everyday lives. Most importantly, we walk to celebrate their courage, perseverance, progress, and voices.

We also walk to raise funds for the mission of Apraxia Kids: strengthening the support systems in the lives of children with apraxia of speech by educating families and professionals, facilitating community engagement and outreach, and investing in advocacy and research. apraxia-kids.org

The Walk for Apraxia brings families and supporters together to raise awareness, build community, and celebrate each Apraxia Star. apraxia-kids.org

Help Us Make an Impact

Please help us reach our fundraising goal by making a donation or joining our team. Every contribution helps Apraxia Kids provide trusted resources, professional education, advocacy, research support, and meaningful connections for children and families affected by CAS.

Together, we can remind these children that their voices matter, their hard work is seen, and an entire community is cheering them on.

Every child deserves a voice.

We walk for awareness.
We walk for support.
We walk for every Apraxia Star.
We walk for Nolin.