From the minute you meet Eric, you know he's a friend. Caring and social, Eric loves a good joke almost as much as he loves playing UNO and listening to music. He is a strong protector of the people he loves and he's always looking out for his friends. And although Eric has never met TLCs therapist Erin in person, he says she is one of his favorites.

At 10 years old, Eric was diagnosed with autism. Three years later, his behavior had become unpredictable, and the family was in crisis. His parents made the extremely difficult decision to admit him into a residential behavior program. When Eric was discharged 12 months later, his parents knew they needed additional help and turned to TLC. For the last 16 years, TLC's therapy team and the family have worked together to develop concrete plans and pathways for Eric to navigate his autism so that he can live at home and thrive as part of his family.

In 2020, when he began experiencing new levels of anxiety and behavior challenges due to the unpredictability of COVID-19, Eric's care team suggested he start meeting with Erin. At first, his mother, Nancy was hesitant, but she trusted the providers at TLC and he began speaking with Erin twice a week over Zoom.

The results have been astounding. With a sense of consistency in his life, Eric has learned valuable tools and techniques to cope with his anxiety. He even loves the homework Erin gives him between sessions, especially when it means that he'll get to play UNO with her as a reward!

When Tammy Lynn Center was founded 52 years ago, the small group of dedicated parents were committed to keeping their families together, and it's a commitment we still work hard to honor today. Since then our services have expanded to include residential programs, autism therapy, respite care, early childhood intervention, education, and community living.

"From the very beginning, TLC brought hope that we could have a fulfilling life with our son and keep him out of crisis", says Nancy. "Eric wouldn't have been able to live at home without the support we've received from TLC."

Please consider a donation today to the heart-to-heart campaign. Your gift makes a difference and enables TLC to continue providing vital services for individuals and families right here in our community.