Local charity ‘Run for Autism’ is celebrating 10 years with its annual run taking place next Saturday, October 7.
This year’s event is set to host its biggest turnout since its inception back in 2007.
The event intends to raise awareness of autism and all proceeds will be to support ‘Run for Autism HAND’ – a registered charity solely committed to helping those living with Autism, and their families in the Southern area across Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon and Newry, Mourne and Down Districts.
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability. This is a condition that cannot be cured. You see, hear and feel the world differently to others around you. Autism is a spectrum condition and one individual’s experience of it will be completely different from the next.
Autistic people can have learning difficulties, disabilities, mental health issues meaning different levels of support are needed case by case, but with the right help and support, each person can be helped to live a more fulfilling life with those closest to them.
Hundreds of professional and amateur runners, walkers and families of all ages and abilities are already registered and set to line out at the starting line in Newtownhamiliton and make the fun journey to Lissummon.
Getting set and ready to go for this year’s big event, Chairman of the charity, Sean Quinn said: “Around 300 children are newly diagnosed with Autism each year here and this number is increasing.
“Without the support from you, the public, we would be unable to provide funds to local groups, schools with special needs classes and charities which help individuals with autism and their families.
“We are proud to have supported dozens of projects over the last 10 years right across the Southern area which has benefited so many individuals and families, and we hope with the public’s support behind this event, we will continue with this important work for years to come.
“All our members I am very proud to say are volunteers and I am truly grateful for their tireless efforts and invaluable contributions which has helped this charity grow from strength to strength since 2007.
“I am calling out to all runners and walkers to come along and join us and run or walk for autism, have a great time and most importantly help contribute to a very worthy cause. We have produced a very special medal for this year’s 10th run and there will be goodie bags for all finishers.”
Participants can register for either the half marathon or 10mile run or walk. You can pre-register for the event online at www.runforautismHAND.com or register on the day from 11am-12.45pm. The event commences from Newtownhamilton Community Hall. The 10m walk starts at 12 noon, half marathon at 1pm and 10 mile run 1.15pm. Shuttle buses will be available between each location before during and after the event.
Refreshments and changing facilities will be available at Lissummon Community Hall when you cross the finishing line.
Check out Facebook and Twitter for more details on the event.
