Hello! My name is Matt and this will be my first attempt at the Dopey Challenge and my second attempt at a Marathon. I'm excited to run on behalf of the Doug Flutie Jr. Founfation for Autism!
Who you are and why you are running!
Hello! My name is Matt and earlier this year I attempted my very first marathon at the Walt Disney World Marathon in January. Running with my father, I made it quite far before an injury took me out at around mile 22. So close! Even so, I enjoyed the challenge a marathon represented and figured why not try again but running for a good cause as added motivation.
With that in mind, I chose to attempt not only the Walt Disney World Marathon, but the Dopy Challenge consisting of a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and full marathon to support the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects around 1 in every 54 children, causing developmental in social communication and interaction along with other comorbidities. While ASD is a lifelong condition, there are a wide variety of treatments and organizations that can help provide support. The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism is a fantastic organization that does a lot of work to provide support to families affected by ASD to get much-needed resources and aid.
Having known and worked with friends and others affected by ASD, I am glad to be able to help raise funds and awareness for this cause. Thank you to anyone able to donate in support of this cause, and for those that can’t please share this message for it will be greatly appreciated!