Why I Will Not Be Silenced—Special Needs Mistreatment in Public Schools: The Story Behind Horizon Over the Spectrum

There are moments in life that change you forever—moments that rip through your heart and reveal a truth so raw, you can’t ignore it. For me, that moment came when I watched a video of my son Messiah being mistreated by his teacher. As a mother and advocate, it broke me. But it also built something new—a fire that could not be put out. Discover the story behind Horizon Over the Spectrum and the fight against special needs mistreatment in public schools. Join the movement now.

Watching the Unthinkable

I can never unsee it. My son—innocent, autistic, and full of light—was mishandled and mistreated by the very person who was supposed to care for him. The video is etched into my memory. Every second felt like a lifetime. The confusion on Messiah’s face. The fear in his body language. The violation of trust.

No child deserves that.

And yet, what’s been even more devastating is the journey that followed—trying to find legal representation willing to fight for justice. Too many doors have been closed. Too many “no’s” without explanation. It’s exhausting and disheartening. But I refuse to be silent.

From Trauma to Purpose

Out of that pain, I founded Horizon Over the Spectrum, Inc.—a nonprofit born out of both necessity and love. It exists to serve families like mine, whose children often fall through the cracks of an underprepared and under-protective system.

Our mission is to:

• Advocate for children on the autism spectrum and those with sensory needs

• Empower families through education and support

• Create inclusive, sensory-friendly environments where children are safe, seen, and celebrated

This isn’t just professional—it’s personal. Horizon Over the Spectrum is Messiah’s legacy in motion.

Sharing Our Story Through Books

To honor Messiah’s journey—and to help other families understand their own—I’ve published two books:

• Spectrum of Love: My Journey Through Autism—A heartfelt memoir of navigating diagnosis, advocacy, and hope.

• Mama, What is Autism?—A beautifully illustrated children’s book that introduces autism in a gentle, empowering way—perfect for young minds and inclusive classrooms.

These stories serve as tools for healing, connection, and transformation.

For Every Parent Fighting for Justice

To every parent who has ever been ignored, dismissed, or made to feel like their child didn’t matter—I see you. I am you. And I promise you this:

I will not stop. I will not be silenced.

I will fight for Messiah—and for every child who deserves better.

Justice may not come overnight, but it will come. And until it does, I’ll keep advocating, writing, and building the support system our children so deeply deserve. Messiah will thrive in a loving environment, even if it does not happen in school.

A joyful moment captured between Mommy and Messiah, smiling together while seated at a cozy restaurant booth.

How You Can Help

• Support Our Sensory Summer Initiative—We’re currently distributing free sensory bags to children on the autism spectrum. You can donate an item from our Amazon Wishlist here: Amazon Sensory Wishlist

• Read & Share Our Book—By purchasing and sharing our books, you help spread awareness and fund future advocacy.

• Explore Our Mission—Learn more about our work by perusing our website.

If you’ve experienced something similar or want to stand with us, please consider sharing our story, supporting our mission, or donating a sensory bag through our Amazon Wishlist. Together, we can create a world where children like Messiah are protected, empowered, and celebrated.