My name is Simone Greggs, and I am a single mother and fierce advocate for my 25-year-old son with autism spectrum disorder. The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) has been our lifeline, providing crucial support services that have dramatically improved my son's quality of life. Today, I'm speaking out against a devastating proposed $200 million budget cut that threatens not just my family, but thousands of others who depend on these essential services.

DDA serves as a vital support system for over 300,000 individuals with a wide range of developmental disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, and other developmental conditions. These services are comprehensive, offering everything from residential support and employment assistance to respite care and self-directed service plans that allow families like mine to maintain our independence while ensuring quality care.

The impact of these proposed cuts would be catastrophic. For my family, DDA support means the difference between stability and crisis. I serve as my son's sole caregiver and support person, and like many parents in similar situations, I've structured my entire life around ensuring he receives the care he needs. These services aren't luxury items – they're essential resources that help our loved ones achieve their fullest potential and maintain their dignity.

Let's be clear: these budget cuts aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet. They represent real people, real families, and real lives. They represent a child with Down syndrome who might lose their speech therapy, a young adult with cerebral palsy who could lose job coaching support, or an autism family like mine who might no longer be able to access crucial behavioral support services. Every dollar cut from this budget threatens someone's chance at independence, growth, and a meaningful life in their community.

I implore you to join me in standing against these unjust cuts. By signing this petition, you're not just supporting an agency's budget – you're standing up for hundreds of thousands of families affected by developmental disabilities. You're declaring that our community values all its members and recognizes that supporting those with developmental disabilities isn't optional – it's essential.

Sign this petition to:

• Stop the proposed $200 million budget cut to DDA
• Protect vital services for individuals with developmental disabilities
  Support families who are already struggling to provide care for their loved ones
• Protect vital services for individuals with developmental disabilities
  Support families who are already struggling to provide care for their loved ones
• Send a clear message that our community stands united in supporting our most vulnerable members
  
  Your signature today helps protect the services that make independence, dignity, and quality of life possible for hundreds of thousands of Americans with developmental disabilities. Together, we can ensure that these essential services remain available for those who need them most.