Welcome

Lori Ciccarelli, mother to 23-year-old JJ, believes she is a missionary for autism and feels it is her responsibility to support other families. “I am a mom on a mission to provide resources and hope to those in need. I finally realized my son didn’t need a cure, he just needed tools for success and to function responsibly in society. I was in denial for many years. Once I accepted my son’s diagnosis, doors started opening because I started opening those doors.” Lori shares successful tools and resources in her film, JJ’s Journey, a Journey about Autism. “Why reinvent the wheel? If these therapies and tools worked for us, maybe they can help others.” Lori had no film experience, but was determined. It took her three years to complete this project and released her film in 2008. The CDC reports that 1 in 88 is being diagnosed with autism. “I am concerned that our country is not prepared for our kids entering adulthood.” Lori understands the importance of autism awareness and wants to make a difference.

Through this riveting documentary film, experience the struggles, challenges, and triumphs of JJ focusing on autism awareness, education, tolerance, gifts and talents, the spiritual journey, and an awakening through treatments. Because autism is a locked-in disorder, watch how JJ’s brain is unlocked. He was on medications for 10 years; JJ has been medication-free since 2006. “Since intolerance has been the hardest part of our journey, I want to help educate society.” School districts around the country are using JJ’s Journey to address issues on tolerance in addition to universities using the film as part of the autism curriculum for special education credentialing programs.

JJ’s Journey was nominated for the 2009 Autism Society of America Media Excellence Award. It is being showcased around the world as the Official Selection for various international film festivals. Lori and JJ have been touted by Oprah as “Ambassadors of Hope” featured on Oprah.com and Oprah’s Angel Network.org, in addition to being featured on NBC.

Lori holds an appointed seat on the California State Council of Developmental Disabilities Board of Directors; was honored as Alumna of the Year 2011, Walla Walla University for community, church, and professional service. She is earning a Master’s degree in Leadership; and certification in Spiritual Leadership and Direction. Lori is a regular featured writer for Special-ism.com.