Two members of my group, Sandpoint Men’s Group are part of Ride Across America – a bike ride across the country. Wayne Pignolet, an avid rider was one of the organizers rides for Team Laughing Dog. Wayne just celebrated his four year anniversary as a group member. David Barth, another group member, is on the support team for Laughing Dog and is leading increasing the awareness around the team’s support of autism.
David and Lisa’s 12 year old son, Jackson, is not only the team’s inspiration; he is the community’s inspiration. Jackson has autism. Behind Jackson’s autism is pure innocence. He brings a unique presence to all social situations. He might be bouncing his ball, having a great time swimming in the lake or demanding his own form of attention. Whatever he is doing, he is being Jackson.
The Spokesman’s Review did an article on the Barths and Team Laughing Dog. The article also represents how a rural community gets behind a cause. All the local businesses are supporting this team and autism awareness. We donate products and services for their auctions. Others are donating RV’s for the race. Many are donating money for autism; to date $10,000 has been raised. Sandpoint might be a small town, but we have a big heart. We support our people and our causes.
To learn more, check out their video. It had me in tears… but I’m easy. Also their blog at – www.teamlaughingdog.com.
