Gearing Up for the 3rd Annual WNC Run/Walk for Autism in Asheville, NC

The Autism Society of North Carolina is gearing up for the 3rd Annual Western North Carolina Run/Walk for Autism on Saturday, September 20, 2008 at Carrier Park in Asheville, NC.

This year the featured events include a 5K Run/Walk, a One-Mile Fun Run/Walk and a Tot Trot for children 6 years old and under.

According to the Autism Society of NC, Autism spectrum disorder is the second most common developmental disability following mental retardation. ASD is more common than childhood cancer, cystic fibrosis, and multiple sclerosis combined. It is estimated that up to 1 out of every 150 children born today has some form of ASD. This means that approximately 1.5 million Americans (children and adults) have ASD today, and that more than 15 million Americans (loved ones, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals) are directly impacted by the disorder. In the state of North Carolina alone there are over 50,000 individuals living with ASD.

For more information on how you can take part in the 3rd Annual WNC Run/Walk for Autism, visit www.wncrunwalkforautism.com.