The Founder &
The Journey

When Portia’s second son was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, a new and challenging journey began. A sense of hopelessness crept in, and loneliness became a constant companion. The diagnosis was foreign, and the uncertainty and fear about his future was just as heavy on the heart as the uncertainty and fear of his day-to-day. At the time, resources were scarce and genuine, non-judgmental support for families was hard to find. She had no one to confide in, no one to learn from. The road felt long and isolating.

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But twenty-one years later, Portia and her son, Callie, stand as a testament to resilience and hope. Their journey is one of perseverance, filled with falls and triumphs, and unwavering faith. She learned that a diagnosis is not an ending—it's a beginning. There is hope and there is more to the story that they are navigating.

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Portia's heart beats for individuals with exceptionalities and their families. Through The Not Forgotten 1st, her mission is to promote awareness, acceptance, and respect. She is driven by a deep understanding of the road these families travel, even if their individual walks differ. She desires for both the individuals and the families to know that hope exists and they are not alone. 

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Portia is here to help—whether it's connecting families with resources, finding job opportunities, or simply offering a shoulder to lean on. She wants every family to know that love and support live here.