Ilse's daughter Helen attended the first NAS school – Sybil Elgar school in Ealing. She has seen how the charity has helped to change people's understanding of autism since it started in 1962.
I started doing my own research and that's when I found out about a brilliant lady named Sybil Elgar who set up a school for children with autism.
In the beginning there was no money or staff; just her and a group of determined parents who wanted their children to be accepted by society. Helen, my daughter, was one of ten children who attended this school. The school followed a similar curriculum to the national system and taught the children, initially deemed unable to be educated, to talk, read, write and socialise with others.
The NAS opened a door to my family when we didn't know where to go. I'm so grateful for the work that they do. I have decided to leave a legacy to the NAS as I know it will help towards continuing their good work.
Ilse Burnell, parent and NAS fundraising assistant
If you would like more information on setting up a trust or leaving a gift in your will to The National Autistic Society, please contact Wendy Bryan by calling 020 7923 5796 or emailing wendy.bryan@nas.org.uk