About Julian
Julian Rapallo is a 13-year-old boy diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. He is the son of Anthony and Ani Rapallo. He has an older brother Francesco and a twin brother Shant.
Julian, with his twin brother Shant, was born on July 31st, 2009, at a premature gestational age of 23 weeks weighing 500 grams. He stayed at Mount Sinai hospital for four months overcoming many obstacles to survive. Julian, truly, is a miracle of God. His family faced many fearful days waiting beside his “isolette”, watching him fighting to survive and waiting for a miracle. And it happened. Although non-verbal, Julian is a handsome, smart and a happy boy living with Autism and his family couldn’t be more proud.
Our Mission
Since the day that Julian was diagnosed with Autism, the Rapallo family has been huge advocates of raising awareness of Autism. They have organized three fundraising events, bake sales and participated to Autism walks supporting Autism Speaks Canada.
In 2023-2024 Julian will start attending high school. As a student with ASD, he has the opportunity to stay in high school for seven years. Julian will graduate from high school at the age of 21. He will be an adult living with Autism with limited help and access to governmental funds and education. While others will be finishing university with degrees, Julian will be forced to stay home and not have hope for a chance to have a career or start new chapters in his life. Julian is not alone. There are many adults living with Autism who do not have the chance to explore this world and live a meaningful life. This is the reason for establishing the future project “Lighthouse” centre for adults living with Autism under management of Rapallo family.
The mission of this fundraiser and all the future events that the Rapallo family will organize will support the building of “Lighthouse” Centre for Adults living with Autism to give hope, a light and meaning to men and women living with Autism and assist their families to feel less pressure in the care giving of their adult children.
The Rapallo family strongly believes that what you think you create, what you feel you attract, what you imagine you become. Just like a lighthouse, that guides waters for boats and ships to keep them safe in the darkness, “Lighthouse” centre will provide guidance and shine a light on the lives of all living with Autism…