Inspired by Maria Shriver's book Ten Things I Wish I'd Known - Before I Went Out into the Real World, Christine Walker set out to help families raising a child with autism and/or a mental health concern. Believing that there were more than ten things she wish she'd known when her son's challenges came to light, Walker created Chasing Hope, LLC to fill the void most families like hers encounter.

Walker's background is in public policy. Prior to becoming a parent, Walker worked with government leaders in Washington, D.C., Illinois and Ohio. As such, Walker brings her unique experience with disabilities to the public policy arena.

Following an award-winning career with Tiffany & Co. Business Sales, Walker returned to her policy roots once her family's challenges became apparent. Walker is a dedicated advocate for children's mental health and works tirelessly to educate policymakers to enhance the lives of famlies raising children with hidden disabilities.

Walker's oldest son lives with Asperger's syndrome, ADHD and a mood disorder. Through early and intensive intervention, which has included many years at therapeutic boarding schools, Walker's son continues to experience successful relationships, academic progress and vocational growth and opportunities.

In the past, Walker has attended the invitation-only Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Symposium at the Carter Center in Atlanta with fellow professionals and advocates. Also, Walker has attended the One Mind for Research conference held at UCLA and is involved with the Illinois Mental Health Summit. Walker also serves on the New Trier Township Committee on Disabilities, working toward enhancing the lives of those living with disabilities in her community. Additionally, Walker serves as a teaching assistant for a course on the legislative process at Northwestern University.

In 2004, Walker had her first book published. The Smart Mom's Guide to Staying Home: 65 Simple Ways to Thrive, not Deprive, on One Income shows families how to live well for less. Walker and her book were profiled on Fox and Friends, CLTV's "Your Money", WGN, theNew York Times, Parade, Chicago Tribune and other publications. Her next book is titled "Chasing Hope" and will be featured as part of the MyPath Library of books on disabilities.

Walker holds a Masters of Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University and a B.A. in Political Science from Lake Forest College. She lives in Winnetka, Illinois with her husband and two younger children.