Around 600 people, three dogs and one Wildcat participated in the first ever Autism Awareness Walk in Moncton’s history.
The event was in honour of World Autism Awareness Day, which saw celebrations take place across the globe.
“It’s a day that we can all come together and let people know that we’re here and to create awareness,” said Angele Collette, one of the walk organizers.
“It was long overdue to have a walk in Moncton.”
With around 200 people registered on Facebook, Collette says they expected a crowd but were overwhelmed by the number of people who showed up.
“I’m very thrilled to see the turnout,” she said. “But at the same time it kind of saddens me to see all these people that are affected with autism.”
Cheryl Leblanc is another walk organizer who can relate.
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Her son was diagnosed as autistic at a young age but they’ve never let that define them.
“When he was four the doctor said he would never read, ride a bike,” Leblanc said. “I got the news two weeks ago that he was accepted to college, so he’s even going to college. So he’s a success story and I think there could be a lot more success if there’s a lot more awareness.”
Leblanc thinks the perception of autism is changing for the better and holding events like this help show people they’re supported and not alone.
“I think by the look of this it’s a need, and we see that people want to be heard as well.”
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