Determined Ryan is stepping out to raise much-needed funds for autism awareness

Failsworth-based Ska music and Manchester City FC fanatic Ryan Taylor-Fox is stepping up to the Walk for Autism challenge in order to raise funds and autism awareness.

Ryan has vowed to join thousands of people across the UK and Ireland who will walk 10,000 steps a day for eight days to raise vital funds for autistic people and their families as part of the fourth annual Walk for Autism campaign, which begins on March 26 and ends on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.

“I have signed up because I have autism and other hidden disabilities,” said Ryan.  

“I have previously taken part in a stepping challenge in February for Brain Tumour Research when I completed 388,810 steps, and now I am concentrating on fundraising for Walk For Autism.”

Despite a challenging year in 2020 with a number of Covid related restrictions in place, the charity initiative raised thousands of pounds, which has supported hundreds of individuals and funded more than 20 projects which encourage the pursuit of specialist interests, promote physical activity and help autistic adults and children learn and develop every single day.

They plan to support even more projects in 2021 and so the support of Ryan and many others like him are essential to achieving that goal.

Autism affects more than 700,000 people in the UK and Ireland.

Walk for Autism Fundraising Manager Liz Oakley said: “Ryan has taken on two steps challenges and he is raising awareness and fundraising tirelessly.

“Ryan has already raised over £500 for Walk for Autism and he raised and has also raised £1,760 for Brain Tumour Research which is a charity also very close to his heart. 

“Ryan is very lucky, he has a lot of wonderful supporters who are backing him and cheering him along. 

“He’s obviously a very popular guy!

“This campaign is especially important to us as we have seen first-hand how much it can improve people’s lives.

“It’s also an opportunity for us to don our trainers and get outdoors.

“This year has been tough for everyone and walking has been proven to help with mental wellbeing – just another positive reason to get involved.

“Walkers can complete their steps at any time and in whatever way suits them, whether it’s walking the dog, stepping on the treadmill or conquering a long-distance hike.

“It’s important to remember that each and every step counts so even if you can’t get out and about, steps around the garden or even around your home will all contribute.

“You can track your steps easily using a pedometer or smart phone apps to make sure you’re hitting your target.

“The concept is simple, but the rewards are huge.”

Walk for Autism is a campaign led by charity Autism Initiatives Group who have been working to improve the lives of autistic people and their families across the UK and Ireland for almost 50 years.

For more information, or to sign up, visit: www.walkforautism.co.uk

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