As I Am luncheon

The 2021 KNOWAutism “As I Am” Luncheon, co-chaired by Dr. Ayesha Rashid and Yoon Smith, raised $280,000 for the nonprofit, which supports children on the autism spectrum and their families. Founder Tammy Tran Nguyen shared her reflection of the day she was told her son Reagan had autism. The struggle to find treatment and support inspired Tammy and husband Wayne to create KNOWAutism. Reagan, now 11, presented a touching, pre-recorded invocation. Daughter Julia (pictured) accompanied vocalist Angela Nichols for a beautiful rendition of “Hallelujah.” She then continued on the piano to accompany Shaan, 11, and Seva Khurana, 5, son and daughter of Sippi and Ajay Khurana, for a performance of “A Million Dreams,” which was met with a standing ovation. Guest speaker Marcel Primes gave an emotional account of raising a child on the autism spectrum. Honorees were Sippi and Ajay Khurana, who were recognized as KNOWAutism Heroes, Corporate Heroes Renee and Alan Helfman, Community Heroes Reagan and Alex Bregman, and Frontline Hero Renee Rodriguez D’Souza, M.D. Board chair Amy Pierce served as emcee.

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