Thousands Walk For Autism Awareness
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The 9th Annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks fundraising event took place at the Sports Complex Saturday morning.
There were only a few rain drops as organizers say 15,000 people walked around and through Citizen's Bank Park.
Christina Carty, with Autism Speaks, says fundraising and awareness has increased through the years, but it isn't where it should be.
"Far behind many of the other childhood disorders. I mean, more children will be diagnosed with autism this year than pediatric cancer, AIDS, diabetes combined. But the funding is far less."
Many participants agreed that more had to be done and that's why they were there.
Gloria was walking with 27 others as part of Katy's Krusaders in honor of her daughter.
"And she was diagnosed in April of this year so we came out to walk for her. She actually has PDD, which is on the spectrum. It's pervasive developmental disorder."
Organizers say the money raised will go toward research and programs for families affected by Autism in Philadelphia and across the country.
Reported by Timothy Jimenez, KYW Newsradio
