Thousands to walk in Dubai for autism

(MENAFN- Arab News) Dubai: thousands of dubai residents are set to join a march for autism at dubai's zabeel park saturday afternoon.

the walk for autism is to raise awareness and give an idea about how important the issue is says dr. hibah shata managing director and the co-founder of the child early intervention medical centre in dubai.

'through this we intend to integrate normal children and children with autism. we needed to get the families to know that these children can be helped. there are some families who really don't know what to do with these children" she told arab news in an interview.

"the public has to realize that children with autism can be helped through proper treatment and attention" she added.

statistics from autism speaks a global organization show that one out of 88 children born today will be diagnosed with autism by the time they are eight years old. therefore early intervention and planning is critical to help more children learn and integrate into mainstream schools.

'the walk for autism is a good opportunity for the community and society to show their support for the cause. with this cause we can form a better future for children with autism" shata said.

participants in the event were also invited to join various activities and fun for the whole family including music talent show bouncing castles face painting and arts.

'the event has been organized every year in april since 2009. this year we expect more than 6000 participants of all ages from different nationalities" shata said.

the walk in partnership with the emirates red crescent and in collaboration with dubai municipality and dubai healthcare city will be held from 5-9 p.m. in observance of world autism awareness month. registration fee is 25 aed/per person for adults which includes a walk for autism t-shirt.

all proceeds will be donated to red crescent to support children with autism organizers said.