MonticelloLive

While on a trip to Canada in August 2007, we decided to stop by my uncle’s house in Windsor, Ontario before crossing the border back into the U.S. It had been several years since my last visit to their house, so it was good to re-connect with him and his family. My cousins, of course, were a lot bigger than I remember them.

Daniel, their youngest, had been diagnosed with Autism at a very young age. He had trouble communicating with us, but it didn’t take long for him to steal our hearts. At supper, he looked out the window to see the Jeep we were driving and let out a loud, “Go? Go? Go?” It was clear he wanted to take a spin in the “new” Jeep. “Go? Go? Go?” was the cry until we finished eating and finally loaded up and drove around the block.

We had a great time reminiscing, eating, and playing video games with the whole family as they shared their struggles, trials, tears, stories, AND triumphs since Daniel came into their lives. From that time, I wanted to do something to encourage Daniel and his family-to let them know that we were thinking about them and praying for them since we were not right there to help. This race is a small attempt to do just that. It is not out of pity for Daniel or other kids with Autism that we run, but a way to honor the countless individuals affected by this disorder. I was so challenged by the love, time, and energy that Daniel’s parents and older brothers have invested in him that this race is a tribute to their lives as well.

By Ryan Copico, MMS EAST Lab Facilitator

All the profits from this race will go directly to benefit Autism Research in Daniel Copico’s name. For more information on autism or Daniel Copico, you can log on to www.autismspeaks.org.

Click here for race information.

Click here to print the application for the event.