Autism run is a marathon effort

Lauren Everitt • Published 16 Mar 2010 12:00 1 Comment

A DETERMINED runner is stepping up the pace ahead of next month's London Marathon.

Lewis Atkinson is aiming to raise around £1,600 for The National Autistic Society (NAS) when he pounds the streets of the capital on Sunday, April 25.

The 31-year-old chose the organisation, which is close to his heart, because he knows from personal experience the everyday challenge the condition presents as one of his close friend's son has autism.

Mr Atkinson, who lives in Halfpenny Lane, Ascot, said: "I wanted to do something to raise awareness of autism which is a condition much more common than many people think.

"I am very close to my friend's son and he has given me a real insight into exactly what autism is."

Mr Atkinson will join more than 35,000 runners taking part in the 26-mile run from Greenwich through to East London, past Canary Wharf and the Embankment, onto the finish line in St James' Park.

NAS is the UK's leading charity for people affected by autism.

He added: "The NAS has supported someone close to me and given him vital support so I couldn't think of a better cause to run 26-miles for. The right support at the right time can make an enormous difference to people's lives and I wanted to help the NAS to continue providing the invaluable support they do."

Last year nearly 150 NAS runners raised £248,226 which went towards providing NAS services such as Advocacy for Education, a befriending scheme, parent-to-parent support service and help programme.

Ella Moffat, NAS' events fundraising manager, said: "I wish Lewis and all those taking part for the NAS, the very best of luck."

Anyone interested in sponsoring Mr Atkinson should visit www.justgiving.com/Lewis-Atkinson

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  Ali
  Unregistered User
  Mar 16, 21:11
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  My son has Autism and I admire what this man, and others are doing to support the NAS. Thank you and well done in advance!
  
  Recommend?   Yes 0     No 0

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