Inspired by a family member, a Kelowna woman is rowing and paddling 365 kilometres to raise money for autism awareness.
Kim Inglis’, whose cousin Tyler died last August, has launched Making Waves for Autism.
“Tyler was just a year older than me and left behind a wife and young son, who is on the autism spectrum,” Inglis explained. One of the things Tyler was most passionate about was raising funds and awareness for autism.”
His goal had been to create a charity boxing event in support of Autism Canada, she added.
“To honour Tyler, I’ve decided to fulfil his goal, albeit with a different sport, since I clearly won’t be taking up boxing,” she added.
She is rowing and paddling 365 km during March, culminating on April 2, which is World Autism Day.
“I specifically chose this distance to represent the 365 days a year that autism impacts our neurodivergent loved ones,” Inglis said.
She will be expanding the event in 2025 so that Tyler’s legacy can live on and outcomes can be improved for those on the autism spectrum.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) impacts brain development, with many individuals experiencing communication problems, difficulty with social interactions and a tendency to repeat specific patterns of behaviour.
“One in 50 people in Canada have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum,” Inglis said. “We are all touched by autism.”
All funds raised through Making Waves for Autism go to Autism Canada and receive tax receipts.
More information is available on the Making Waves for Autism website and direct donations can be made through Canada Helps.
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