The Italian Bakery Pizzeria Napoletana in Collegeville has gone viral after it shared heart-warming autism awareness messages on its billboard, according to a staff report from Local 21 News.

Thousands online are praising the owners, Steve and Patrizia Carcarey, for the wholesome messages many could see as they were driving by the billboard.

“Autism is not contagious but my smile is,” said one of the messages.

After posting the images of the billboards online, the family received an overwhelmingly positive response, with people leaving tens of thousands of likes and comments.

The couple were inspired to post the messages by their son Steven, who was diagnosed with both autism and Asperger’s.

And while going viral was fun, the Carcareys said they were simply happy to share such content to raise awareness.

“We have an opportunity to use the small platform we have to spread acceptance and awareness,” said the couple. “One day we hope someone will take a chance on our son Steven! What’s wrong with being different!”

Read more about the Italian Bakery Pizzeria Napoletana at Local 21 News.

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