Gilmour Academy Softball Swings for a Solution

Kristy Booher hopes Swing for a Solution may one day be as recognized as Volley for a Cure, a volleyball fundraiser for cancer.

Assistant coach of the Gilmour Academy varsity softball team, Booher developed Swing for a Solution last year to honor fellow assistant coach Mandy Hansen and her autistic son, Michael.

"We knew of Volley for a Cure and wondered, 'What can we come up with?' We wanted to do something similar," Booher said.

Last year, about $600 was raised for Autism Speaks at a May game against Hawken. So far this season, two dates have been scheduled as Swing for a Solution events – May 5 versus Laurel School and May 11 against Geneva. Other schools are invited to participate in what Booher would like to see become a nationwide effort.

Money is raised through the sale of apparel with team logos and the Swing for a Solution design. Costs are $13 for T-shirts, $15 for long-sleeve shirts, $16 for crew sweatshirts and $21 for hoodies. Prices are higher for XXL and larger sizes. Prices cover costs of items plus a $5 donation to Autism Speaks. For ordering information, send email to Booher at booherk@gilmour.org or call 440-473-8198.

Booher said team members are aware of Michael Hansen, but don't interact with him much because his level of autism is such that he has difficulty communicating with others. But he attended the first Swing for a Solution.

"It was an emotional experience just because the coach had her son there," Booher said. "He really had no idea what was going on. We're doing this in the hope that no one else has to stand out there with their kid who doesn't understand."

Booher said she and Mandy Hansen have been best friends since they were 7 years old and played on two state championship softball teams at Willoughby South High School. Since starting Swing for a Solution in her honor, Booher said she's heard from many parents and others who know people with autism and want to participate.

"It makes me feel good that we're doing something for others," she said.

It would be even better if the event started catching on elsewhere, Booher added.

"That's our ultimate goal. We want to become a nationwide thing. The amount of work has really increased from last year. My family really helps out and makes sure the orders are filled. We do it for her and her son. I think it would be great to say it all started here at Gilmour."