Autism is a neurological condition that affects one in 94 children. 
   However, not many students know the importance of autism awareness, unlike Michala Riggle, who at just the age of 10 went beyond just promoting autism awareness.
   Her incredible foundation is now on its way to Corbin High School.

   “I think that Michala is definitely an inspiration to many children, and autistic families,” said FCCLA leader Jessica Lester. 

   In Feb. 2006 Riggle's younger brother began getting IV infusions of an amino acid called Glutathione. He was the first IV patient at Kosair Childrens Hospital in Louisville.
   He responded so well to the treatment that the hospital wanted to start a medical study using the same IV protocol on more autistic children, but they didn’t have enough money.
   Riggle wanted other autistic children to be able to have the advantage that her brother did. With only $7.25 she told her mother “I’m going to make bracelets and raise that money.”
   Riggle believed that she could sell the bracelets and raise the $200,000 that Kosair needed to conduct the study.
   She began a 30-day challenge where she asked people to sign up to receive beads and string for free. The volunteers then make bracelets and sell them for $3. After all the supplies that were sent are gone, they send back the money that was raised.
    CHS' Family, Career, Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter has signed up to participate.

   “There should be enough beads and supplies sent to make 300 bracelets. I think that we will be more than able to sell all the bracelets especially because they’re for a good cause,” said Jessica Lester, FCCLA sponsor.

   With an original goal of $200,000, Riggle shocked everyone by raising nearly $300,000 as well as autism awareness.

    Now $500,000 later she is determined to raise $300 million to build a magnificent and one of a kind Autism Research and Treatment Center. 
   FCCLA will begin the 30-day challenge within the next week. They’ll be supporting Riggle's cause and helping many autistic children overcome Autism. 

   “We are all excited to do the 30-day challenge. It’s a great community service, and it’s here in Louisville,” said Mrs. Lester.

   Not only is this going to be something that’s going to benefit autistic children but also to help students learn more about autism overall.

   Students don’t have to be in FCCLA to help bead the bracelets.

   “We will be having after school beading parties. All volunteers are welcome to help, and we will be announcing them ahead of time,” said Mrs. Lester.

   Helping build this autistic research center will help many autistic families.