Riding for autism

The innocence of these always truthful, slightly quirky kids has given way to auSOMEtism entering just shy of an 80-strong field of riders of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds. Sitting astride many different cycles ranging from mountain bikes, road bikes, tandems and, my personal favourite, the unicycle, we hope to prove that doing something different certainly does not make you any less.

Riding a unicycle has given me a tiny glimpse into a world akin to my son’s. While riding, I am always on the outside of the greater cycling community, isolated.

I attract stares, gasps, cheers and jeers. Even though we all have the same objective I am treated differently. In the grand scheme of things, yes, I am different. I AM NOT LESS. NEITHER IS MY CHILD. It’s for this very reason I have decided to take on the challenge of riding a unicycle long distance. I want people to stop and stare, I want people to joke and ask questions. Hopefully, I will be able to share Nic’s story and educate the uneducated regarding Autism. Furthermore, when Nic reaches 12, he might not have the opportunity to learn in a school geared for learners with autism. Why you may ask? Frankly, there are none currently available that caters to Nic’s needs. I hope to change that with your help.

We are asking each auSOMEtism team rider to try and raise R1 000, with the aim of achieving R100 000. With the money raised from last year’s 947 Cycle Challenge, we were able to assist with the opening of a teenage learning facility, which opened its doors on 1 October 2014. With the funds collected this year by our troop of riders, we hope to take the first steps towards turning our dream of helping further the education of these young adults into a reality. That is to open a school for Nic and other children like him, with the help of the dedicated principal and staff from Faery Glen therapy centre.