MANSFIELD, Ohio–The Autism Awareness Walk-a-thon and The Ohio State University are hosting speaker Derek Volk on Sunday, May 31. Volk will share his experience of raising a son on the autism spectrum—the challenges and the triumphs.
Volks will speak at The Ohio State University Mansfield campus in the Conrad Auditorium in Riedl Hall from 6-8 p.m. For more information, call Debbie Melching at 419-589-8762 or email her at aawdeb@yahoo.com.
Derek Volk’s oldest child – his only son – was two-years-old when his wife suggested, “Something is not quite right with Dylan.” They struggled for the next several years as they were bounced from one “expert” to another, each offering a unique perspective on Dylan’s challenging behaviors.
Finally, at eight-years-old, Dylan was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and the Volk family was able to start making sense of Dylan’s differences.
In “Chasing the Rabbit: A Dad’s Life Raising a Son on the Spectrum,” Derek Volk shares his experiences raising a son on the Autism spectrum. Both Dylan and Derek write about the challenges, triumphs and coping strategies from the early days to the adolescent years to life in the “real world” as a young adult. This book showcases the unique relationship between a father and his son who has spent his entire life chasing the rabbit.
Sunday, Volks will share their story at The Ohio State University Mansfield.
Derek Volk is a Maine businessman, supporter of Autism awareness, volunteer, philanthropist, softball coach, and he can now add book author to the list. He is currently the president and co-owner of Volk Packaging Corporation, a third generation, family owned, corrugated box manufacturer in Biddeford, Maine. Derek actively participates on the Maine Business Leadership Network (BLN), a national organization that focuses on connecting employers with employees who have disabilities. His own company currently employs those who are deaf, blind and on the Autism Spectrum.
