A-NOD INC Iowa Cubs Fundraiser and Interview~author Diane Thacker~September 13th, 2026
Interview Overview
This interview explores how Diane Thacker’s organizations—A-NOD For Situational Awareness LLC and A-NOD INC—raise awareness, advocate for people living with situational anxiety, invisible disabilities, and sensory health concerns, and provide support.
Interview Questions
What inspired A-NOD, and how did it develop?
When were the organizations established?
How has A-NOD addressed challenges and limitations along the way?
Origins and Development
A-NOD’s inspiration began in August 2015, after our family was rear-ended at the Iowa State Fair. During the traffic stop, our oldest son, Robert, who was 10 at the time, became frightened as an officer approached our van. From a rear window, he shouted, “Take me to jail right now!”
Startled by Robert’s reaction, the officer asked my husband, Larry Sr., for his license and registration. As Robert’s sensory meltdown intensified, Larry immediately explained what was happening. The officer paused, stepped back, and said, “I have a niece like that.”
That moment made us realize how greater awareness and a different approach could improve stressful encounters involving people with special needs and first responders. In 2019, I shared our family’s story at the Ankeny Police Department alongside four other families with similar experiences.
Today, A-NOD Light Bearers and Paladins advance the organization’s mission with the support of more than 100 LLC members and seven board directors, guided by Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine so that others can see the good deeds done and give glory to God.”
Advocacy and Presence Over Money
A-NOD For Situational Awareness LLC and A-NOD INC were established as separate entities in 2020 and 2023. Since then, we have shared our experiences with community members and first responders, creating opportunities for others to tell their stories and help build safer, more supportive spaces.
In 2026, our Paladin lights continue to shine through donations, gifts, and talents that support educational materials, classes, merchandise, and other resources. Yet when funding is difficult, my youngest twin, James, reminds me, “Mom, money does not buy happiness.” His words reflect an important truth: A-NOD is not only about money; it is about being present, wherever people are and whatever they face.
Creating Safe and Supportive Spaces
As such, A-NOD supports others through compassion and a commitment to see, hear, and validate people living with situational anxiety, invisible disabilities, or sensory health concerns—from community members to first responders—especially during stressful or crisis-filled encounters.
Because we are all sensory people, supportive spaces begin with awareness. They are not driven by profit, but rather by the spark that chooses awareness over assumption.
Aid in Building Supportive Spaces Through Connection
At tonight’s Iowa Cubs A-NOD fundraiser and fireworks, consider becoming a Light Bearer. Visit A-NOD.com to learn how you can help, build connections, and support loved ones so that “others may see your good deeds and give glory to God.” —Matthew 5:16
Thank you!
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