Marathon mums raise autism awareness

Lisburn woman Cathy Brown decided to do somehing for the worthy cause as her friend's son has autism.

She explained: "I am friendly with Tina Magee, whose young son has Autism. I have got to know Tina as our children attend Downshire Primary School, I also realise that Tina and her family can find life challenging."

Five mums of children at Downshore Primary ran the relay in the Belfast Marathon in aid of AutismNI Lisburn Branch as membership of the Branch has really helped Tina and her family.

Cathy, along with Tina, and fellow Downshire Primary mums, Karen Hewitt, Michelle Furphy and Candida Corscaden completed the 26 mile route in just under four hours.

Tina said: "I would like to thank Cathy for her consideration and for helping raise awareness of the invisible and often misunderstood disability that is Autism. Also thanks to the other relay running Mums and to everyone who sponsored us."

Autism NI works to provide services for the 20,000 people affected by Autism throughout Northern Ireland. These services include a parent support network, family support service, training and education courses, developmental research and also lobbying for a NI Autism Act.

Every year over 300 children in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with Autism and this figure is set to steadily increase in the future. All funds raised by Autism NI remain within Northern Ireland and are used to improve the lives of those affected by this hidden disability.

To find out more about Autism you can contact Autism NI on 9040 1729 or visit www.autismni.org.