WESTFIELD – The Western New England Walk Now For Autism Speaks held its 12th annual event at Stanley Park Saturday and raised nearly $100,000, with more donations still coming in.
More than 2,000 participants from over 100 teams joined the walk, which included a resource fair and children’s activities.
The top two teams – Jessie James and the Outlaw Walkers and Ryan’s Rally for Autism, both of Westfield – raised $6,295 and $5,710, respectively.
This year, for the first time, organizers said corporate sponsorships were received from Bapson Capital and Carando Ham. Home Depot also sponsored the event and brought its popular kids’ workshop to the park. The day took a super turn when superheroes showed up by the dozens. From Spiderman to Catwoman, Wolverine and even storm troopers and a princess or two, the day proved to be magical for many of the people living with Autism Spectrum Disorder who attended the fund and awareness-raising walk.
The Westfield News, 22 News and Mix 93.1 all joined the walk as media sponsors, and 22 News meteorologist Adam Strzempko served as master of ceremonies. State Rep. John Velis helped Boy Scout Troop 109 lead the crowd in the Pledge of Allegience.
MGM Springfield sponsored the Grand Club this year, which is a VIP tent for those individuals who raise $1,000 or more. Inside the tent, each Grand Club member received gifts from Hannoush Jewelers, Six Flags New England, Becca and Kat Photography, Hood and Walgreens, and were treated to a massage from Yola’s Caring Touch Massage, as well as treats donated by Frosted Owl Cupcakes, Chic-Fil-A, and Edible Arrangements.
A special tent for newly diagnosed families offered information for those new to autism, and a transition area offered information for people on the spectrum moving into adulthood.
For some people, the walk was a place to gather information about autism and the services provided in the area.
“I think it’s very important because I don’t think a lot of people realize how much autism effects people in the community. A lot of people say autism – what’s that?” said Chrissey Gillis of Westfield.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. With the May 2013 publication of the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, all autism disorders were merged into one umbrella diagnosis of ASD. Previously, they were recognized as distinct subtypes, including autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome.
ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art.
The Centers for Disease Control released data earlier this year that one in 68 people under age 21 have some form of autism.
To find out more or to make a donation, visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/wne.
