Support this parent of a child with special needs

On Saturday, we will be hosting a benefit celebration for our son, Austin Nye, at 807 North 14th St., Keokuk, from 5 p.m. until midnight. We are doing this to show support to a young man who is going through a challenging custody situation involving his 6 year old daughter with special needs.

In addition to working up to 16 hours per day, Austin makes time to attend his autistic daughter's medical appointments, therapy sessions, parent/teacher conferences and other appointments.

Although there is a joint custody agreement, Austin has physical custody meaning that the majority of care falls squarely on his shoulders ? which he handles very well. We would like for him to know that those who know him personally and professionally stand with him and applaud the strength, patience and love he exhibits towards not just his autistic daughter but his other children and wife as well.

It is well known in Iowa that laws pertaining to custody rights usually favor the mother 77 percent of the time, compared to fathers 8 percent. Fathers usually have a more difficult time trying to prove their value as the main caretaker of children.

So, stop by if you have a moment and take part in an event that not only honors him, but all persons who love and take on the care of a special needs child. Sometimes giving someone a "thank you" or a pat on the back or hug may mean more to them than all the money in the world. We have received an outpouring of support not only from friends and family, but our local businesses as well.

We will be serving pulled pork sandwiches on homemade Hawaiian buns, baked beans, potato salad, green beans, homemade macaroni and cheese and assorted desserts. Hope to see you there.

Darryl and Devella Riles

Keokuk