Friends, 

On April 21st, I will be running the 2024 TCS London Marathon to raise money for Autism Speaks. Each marathon, my goal is to choose a different organization that makes an important and significant impact on individuals lives to further educate myself as well as those closest around me. Over the past six years, I’ve been privileged to run for incredible organizations such as The Dana Farber Cancer Institute, the Ronald McDonald House, the New York Road Runners (2x), and the Chagrin Valley Civic Group while raising over $25,000.  This year, I am honored to support the Autism Speaks foundation where proceeds will fuel research and programs that mean so much to so many.

What is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. We now know that there is not one autism but many sub-types, and each person with autism can have unique strengths and challenges. Most forms are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental influences, and many are accompanied by medical issues such as intestinal issues, seizures and sleep disturbances. An estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum.

How Does Autism Speaks (and your donation) Help?

Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism and related conditions. They empower people with autism and their families with resources, online tools and information covering the life span.

Please visit the link above to donate. Your gift will enhance the lives of people with autism today and create a spectrum of solutions for tomorrow. Thank you in advance for your donation!

Best,

Alex Tan