06/04/2026
One of our members, Kayla Niese, recently experienced the unimaginable loss of her two young sons.
Over the years, I have come to know Kayla as a loving, selfless, and devoted mother who would do absolutely anything for her children. She and her husband have raised children who are kind, caring, and willing to be friends with everyone.
Like many parents that are part of the “IEP club,” Kayla spent countless hours advocating for her child. She took significant time off work for meetings, stayed up late writing emails, rushed from appointment to appointment, researched, and struggled to make sure her child had the support he needed and the opportunity to be a valued part of his school and community. Like many parents, she was forced to navigate a complicated system while simply trying to be a mother.
Now, Kayla has been thrust into another club that no parent should ever have to join. In the weeks, months, and years ahead, our community will have opportunities to show this family that they are not alone. First, donations for the family’s expenses may be made to the Gus and Archer Niese Memorial Fund at any branch of The Union Bank Company or through the GoFundMe account (link in the comments).
Second, in memory of her son, I would ask each of us to do a few things:
• Parents, hug your children a little tighter and encourage them to make friends with the kid struggling or the child who may feel left out.
• If you are an educator, therapist, administrator in our schools and support systems, remember the families sitting across the table from you. Listen to parents, include them in decision-making, be honest about your limitations, and be willing to seek outside help when needed. Most importantly, always be willing to try one more thing for a struggling child and family.
Sometimes that "one more thing" makes all the difference. Sometimes it gives a family something priceless—more meaningful time together. As this tragedy reminds us, life can change in an instant. Time with our children is precious, and every moment matters.
Finally, please keep Kayla, her husband, and their entire family in your prayers.
-Amber L. Niese, President of Connections for Autism and Other Disabilities
View Archer Niese's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.
