By JESSICA E. FUNK
Clarion News writer
Darlene Matson of Clarion recently participated in the first-ever Philadelphia Eagles Autism Challenge on May 19.
Three of a total of 3,319 participants, Matson, her son Damian Lind, and grandson Keith, both of Doylestown, participated in the 5k walk/run portion of the event.
Held at Lincoln Financial Field, the home of the Philadelphia Eagles, participants could choose from a 50-, 30- or 15-mile bike ride as well as the 5k walk/run.
As participants ended their journey, they entered the stadium through the player’s tunnel and were greeted by a drumline and cheerleaders.
“The thing that was most awe-inspiring for me was that it was a rainy, miserable day. We got soaked. But 3,319 people came out and braved the weather to put in the mileage for a great cause,” said Matson.
She heard about the event through her son who is a lifelong Eagles fan and the parent of an autistic child. Matson said she knew it was something she had to do.
Matson’s grandson Keith and grandnephew Chase have both been diagnosed with autism.
A Riverview Intermediate Unit classroom at Clarion Area Elementary made posters for Matson and her family to use while at the event.
Matson and her family were able to meet several of the players and get photos on the field.
“Everybody from that organization was there. Several of the players did the bike rides and some did the walk. If they were not participating, they were throughout the course cheering you on.”
Each participant was responsible for raising at least $250 to be eligible.
All of the money raised will stay in the Philadelphia area at places like Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Drexel University and Jefferson Health for autism research.
“A lot of people don’t understand what autism is. It is not a disease, it is a condition. You cannot catch it. It is simply a different wiring of the brain. Those with autism experience challenges with repetitive behavior, verbal and nonverbal communication along with difficulties in areas of social interaction and cognitive function.”
Autism currently affects one in 37 boys and one in 151 girls. There is no medical detection or cure and it is the number one developmental disorder in the world.
“I’m not an Eagles fan, but I was that day. I was in awe of the event itself, but even more with the spirit of participants involved in the challenge,” Matson added.
For more information about the Philadelphia Eagles Autism Challenge, visit www.eaglesautismceaglesau.org.