Walk Now for Autism 2008

       

On Saturday, we went to the Walk Now for Autism event.  My brother helped with organizing the event so we showed up to give our support.  In our family, it is an important cause because my nephew has autism.  The walk was organized to help raise awarness about autism and earn funds to further research into treatments for autism.  I wasn’t sure what to expect.  We were thinking we would be there for an hour or so.  I think we were actually there for about three hours.  It was a really impressive event.  It is going to be held annually so if you didn’t make it this year, you can always go next year.  Also, if you want to learn more about autism, you can visit the Autism Speaks website.  It’s a fabulous resource.

The walk was held at Cottonwood High School this year.  We arrived at Walk Now for Autism right as some skydivers were floating down to the football field.  Very cool!  It took us a few minutes to find my family group.  We stood in line for awhile waiting for the walk to begin.  There was some live music and clowns with balloons to keep everyone entertained.  There were some characters in costume too.  We saw storm troopers, Darth Vader, and Buzz Light Year.  There were some big sponsers there.  Bottled water was provided as well as milk, cereal, ice cream sandwiches, and ice cream dots.

On the walk we saw several groups that were wearing matching t-shirts.  Some of them had pictures of their family member affected by autism.  And there were some really clever group names there.  One team had named themselves Rally for Riley and I saw some cute sun visors with the team name of Parker’s Peeps.  We were there to support my nephew Alex and my brother has named the team Alexander Link.  We aren’t listed as team members but we went out and took a walk round the high school for Alex and donated a little to help.  It was really moving to see these families rallying for their loved ones.  Some of the groups had even worked out chants like “We love Riley, yes we do.  If you knew him, you would too!”  and a song about “We are Friendship Ministries.  We help children with special needs.”  It was really heartwarming to see the support and the great attendance.  They had to direct people to park in the neighborhoods and at Gold’s Gym because there were so many cars that the High School parking lots were filled up.

After the walk, we took the kids over to play in the jump tents and inflatable slides.  My wonderful hubby followed the boys from line to line, carrying three sets of shoes.  There was also a dance group that put on a fun performance.  Then he took them to visit the booths and get little party favors and prizes.  Finally, we packed up and headed home.  It was a really nice day.  Hopefully, we’ll see you there next year ;D  Have a great day!