Walk it Off!

Take a two-mile walk for autism research this weekend

by Michelle Wilson

Posted Friday, October 5, 2012, 11:33AM

Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein

Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the U.S.

Awareness of the disorder is increasing as well, thanks to organizations such as Autism Speaks and national consumer publications like People —last month, the magazine ran a story on Jacqueline Laurita of the Real Housewives of New Jersey, as her son was recently diagnosed with autism.

“1 in 88 children is affected by autism,” says Southern California events director Brian Han of Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are labels describing a complicated set of developmental brain disorders that can result in problems with communication, repetitive behaviors, and social interaction in varying intensities.

What can you do to help? Well, you can start by taking a walk. A two-mile walk around San Diego on Saturday, October 6^th to be exact. The 8^th annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks will help raise money for autism research and support families affected by the disorder. The group hosting this event, Autism Speaks, is the largest autism organization in the world. It sponsors research on prevention, treatment, and cures for autism and emphasizes community outreach events to increase public awareness and help families touched by the disorder.

Last year, 2,500 walkers came out for the event and raised $128,500. “It’s important to support the cause,” says Han, “because it’s likely someone you know is affected by this disorder and you can help those families affected [by participating].”

The Walk Now for Autism Speaks start location is at Liberty Station of Point Loma, Ingram Plaza, 2640 Decatur Road. Opening ceremony: 9:30 a.m.; walk starts at 10:00 a.m. Register the day of the race from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. or online at autismspeaks.org/events.