Each year, the world marks Autism Awareness Day on 2 April. Egyptians choose to mark the occasion by organising a run at the most famous site in the country — the Giza Pyramids.
The run, scheduled for Friday, 7 April, is organised by the leading running community in Egypt, Cairo Runners, as part of a campaign to raise awareness about Autism and inspire people to become part of a movement aiming to increase public awareness, build community, and give a voice to those living with the condition and address the challenges they face.
Runners are encouraged to don blue garments, the colour that symbolises Autism across the globe. Many famous landmarks worldwide will be lit blue to mark the cause, including the Giza Pyramids.
On their official page, Cairo Runners stated that due to the historic nature of the location, only a limited number can join by registering online at http://cairorunners.com/registration till 1 April. Registered runners are to receive a pack from specific Emirates NBD branches, including an ID number mandatory for attending the run.
According to the World Health Organisation, Autism affects one in every 100 human beings worldwide.
Diagnosis usually takes place between the ages of two to three years old. Often parents seek medical attention when they feel that their child is not developing like his or her peers, especially in terms of speech.
The Egyptian Autistic Society (EAS) established in 1999 states that the condiition affects one in every 250 to 300 children in the country.
Cairo Runners were one of the early pioneers encouraging Egyptians to adopt a healthier, more energetic lifestyle, taking to the streets for early runs each Friday, and choosing different locations throughout the capital each time.
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