About Us

About We Rock the Spectrum Cary

Eden van Biljon

When Ryan’s son was diagnosed with autism in 2016 at the tender age of two, it initially seemed like a devastating turn. However, as Ryan delved deeper into understanding autism, he discovered beautiful parallels between how his son experienced the world and his own perspectives. His son, he realized, simply processed the world differently—a unique lens rather than a barrier.

Navigating childhood was challenging, especially in public spaces that catered predominantly to mainstream needs. Too often, our family outings were marred by misunderstanding—requests to leave, hushing glances, and a palpable sense of unwelcome. It was heartbreakingly clear that most places weren’t equipped to embrace all children, particularly those like our son. Why should he miss out on joyous childhood experiences simply because he was born differently?

In 2020, I joined Ryan, sharing his commitment to create better, more inclusive environments for our son. Despite our best efforts, local spots remained ill-prepared for inclusion, forcing us to withdraw from activities and memberships that couldn’t accommodate our needs.

Our breakthrough came in 2021 when we discovered We Rock the Spectrum (WRTS). It was a revelation—a place genuinely designed for all children, fostering understanding and interaction between neurotypical and neurodiverse children. Here was a community where differences were celebrated, not merely tolerated.

Opening this business and integrating our son into this inclusive community has not only been a fun business venture but a profound joy and a personal triumph. It’s more than a place; it’s a promise to every child and family that walks through our doors—they are welcomed, they are understood, and they truly belong.

We opened our WRTS location in Cary and emboldened by this mission, Eden and Jessica united in 2022 to extend this vision. We are planning a new location in Raleigh. Our goal is to serve families throughout the Triangle, providing a space where children like our son can thrive alongside their peers.

Jessica Sturino

We entered the world of autism in 2013 when our son was diagnosed at 3 years old. As a stay-at-home mom, I would take our son to public places where he could play and learn.
Much of the time, these environments would be overstimulating for him and we would end up leaving either because of the overwhelming environment and him melting down and/or because of the judgmental looks we would get from others. I have experienced firsthand how limited our area is in resources and welcoming environments for our loved ones who are differently abled. Throughout the years, I saw an increasing number of families who were struggling in many of the same ways and decided to become involved with the local autism community to do what I could to help others. In 2017 I reached out to the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) to see how I could help provide support to the autism community. ASNC asked me to start a new Chapter in the North Wake area. Through this Chapter, I could offer support to an underserved community within Wake County.

In 2018 I came across a story online about a sensory gym that was for ALL children, however developed specifically with the needs of autistic and other neurodiverse children in mind. With my background in Physical Therapy and seeing my son benefit from Occupational Therapy throughout the years, I knew how needed a place like this was in the Triangle.

It is going to be my absolute pleasure and honor to bring to our community a We Rock the Spectrum Kids Sensory Gym, where we will build a community of understanding and support while providing all children with a safe, fun, and inclusive environment.