Family walks like a dinosaur!
WRIGHTS ARE TAKING ON 10,000-STEP-A-DAY CHALLENGE FOR PEOPLE WITH AUTISM
A NOTTINGHAMSHIRE family are getting ready to take on a walking challenge to raise money for autism projects in the UK.
The Wrights, from Eastwood, will walk 10,000 steps a day for eight days for autistic people and their families.
The challenge is part of the seventh annual Walk For Autism campaign between Tuesday, March
26, and Tuesday, April 2 – with the last day marking World Autism Awareness Day.
More than 5,000 walkers took part in the challenge last year, together raising more than £428,000 with more than 211.6 million steps.
Penny Wright said: “We decided to take part in this fundraising challenge for our son Freddie, who was diagnosed ASD and ADHD early last year – and for every other person living with autism. “People’s understanding around neurodiversity does seem to be improving. However, there is still a long way to go in regard to awareness and acceptance. We are fortunate that Freddie attends an excellent local school that recognises and supports special educational needs and, subsequently, he is thriving. “We are excited to start the challenge and help support such a worthy cause. As a family, we have decided to complete our 10,000 steps a day around our local park in dinosaur costumes. We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received so far and have raised over £500 already.”
The essential funds have supported thousands of autistic individuals and paid for many projects, which encourage the pursuit of specialised interests, promote physical activity and help autistic adults and children to socialise in supportive communities.
The team at Walk For Autism plan to support even more projects next year and the support of the Wright family, and many others, is essential to achieving that goal.
Walk For Autism fundraising manager Liz Oakley said: “This campaign is one of the biggest events of the year at Autism Initiatives Group. The campaign is so special to our team, as we see how much of an impact it makes every year. It really does help to improve the quality of life of the people we support.
“It’s also a brilliant opportunity to spend time outdoors and improve mental and physical wellbeing. It’s important to us that the challenge is inclusive to all abilities, so whether you opt for short walks each day, walk the dog with family and friends, or take on a long-distance hike, the challenge can work around you. Walk For Autism also includes steps from everyday activities, so every step counts and makes a difference.”
There is still a long way to go in regard to awareness and acceptance
Penny Wright