A Dublin run is paying tribute to a four-year-old autistic girl who died in tragic circumstances.
The event is in memory of Georgia Callan who tragically died in an accident in Spain four years ago. Her family are asking people who take part this year to wear colourful clothes as a nod to their daughter’s bright and cheerful personality.
The ‘AsIAm 5K Run4Autism’ will take place on Sunday July 31 in Clondalkin with lots of fun and entertainment on offer. You don’t need to be a regular runner to take part as all abilities are welcome to walk or run the 5k route.
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AsIAm CEO, AsIAm, Adam Harris told Dublin Live: “It'll be really special to see the community come together. Georgia was a beautiful little girl who was a member of our community.
“She sadly died in certain circumstances a few years ago. Georgia had passed by the time our second run came along in 2019 - so we named the route in honour of Georgia and in honour of her memory. We hope it’s a special way to remember a wonderful little girl and to support other people like Georgia.”
This run is a critical fundraising event for AsIAm according to Adam. The money raised will go directly to support all of the services on offer to the autistic community including the Autism Information Line, a range of social and employment programmes as well as an autism friendly accreditation programme for the business and public services communities.
Mr Harris added: “Autistic people face barriers in the community, we’re working to change that and give them the same chance. We found that over half of our community had experienced discrimination, over a quarter didn’t feel safe in their own community, 63 percent didn’t feel like that had access to inclusive healthcare and over a quarter didn’t think their child was in an appropriate school.
“It’s very important to turn awareness into action. We’re training schools, public services, businesses to be able to include autistic people and we’re providing direct support.
“For autistic people to access support, there’s very often significant waiting lists and major barriers. Our autism information nights and support groups, it’s the only concrete support some people get.”
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All participants will receive branded merchandise and a medal and refreshments when they sign up. Registration fees start at €12.50 and you can register today at www.asiam.ie.
AsIAm are encouraging people and groups to fundraise whilst they partake in the event to drive much needed funds for autism services. The event will take place at Corkagh Park in Clondalkin, between the N7 and the Old Nangor Road.
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