As somebody living with a disability since birth, when events related to people who require additional assistance to negotiate the journey of life, it naturally peaks interest. More than that, it prompts a natural instinct to help out in whatever way might be possible.
So when an old acquaintance from school days long gone, Emma Dalligan, approached me about one such upcoming event, I was more than happy to give the Culmullen 5K Run a kickstart for the organisers if at all possible. At this point, it will be admitted that Autism is one condition (I hope that’s the right term, if not, most humble apologies) I know very little about.
Other than the fact that it seems, to me at least, to be surprisingly prevalent. However, what that observation must be followed up with is an acknowledgement of the fantastic work undertaken, particularly at schools level – to make integration with mainstream society as seamless as possible for those travelling the Autism odyssey.
I know first hand the splendid work that went it to fundraising that went in to getting to a point where there are now ASD units in both primary and secondary schools. However, what is even more impressive and indeed heart warming to hear that there are even initiatives to help pupils effected by Autism in a small, rural school like Culmullen.
Having had to travel myself in my youth to avail of the therapies and other services associated with my own disability (Cerebral Palsy), I can all too easily relate to how vital, welcome and relieving it must be for parents of kids effected who attending Culmullen NS to have such a support network so close to home.
Again deferring back to my area of greatest knowledge, Cerebral Palsy, when I was a kid, the Central Remedial Clinic (CRC) in Clontarf and Temple Street hospital were the only entities specialising in the treatment and care of CP at the time.
Now at least, disability care in general, while far from perfect, is much more decentralised and available more locally to those who need them most.
Thus, not only are efforts like those in Culmullen NS commendable and meriting of support already, the Culmullen Run provides a wonderful opportunity to endorse their efforts still further. Whether you’re a competitive runner, fun runner, walker or just keen to support a wonderful and very worthy cause, pop along to the Culmullen Run on May 25th at 1PM or check out http://www.popupraces.ie
Best wishes to Emma and all involved.
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