The Walk for Apraxia: Community supports children working hard to find their voices

The 2019 Western New York Walk for Apraxia event will be held Saturday, Oct. 19, at Raymond Klimek Veterans Park to benefit children with apraxia of speech. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with the walk beginning at 10 a.m.

Childhood apraxia of speech is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to speak. Children with the diagnosis of apraxia of speech generally have a good understanding of language and know what they want to say. However, they have difficulty learning or carrying out the complex sequenced movements that are necessary for intelligible speech.

The Walk for Apraxia is held across the country as a means to heighten awareness and raise funding in the hopes that all children with apraxia may have access to the support they need to find their voices. This event is open to all adults and children. Proceeds benefit the mission of Apraxia Kids.

“The Western New York Walk for Apraxia gives children a special day to celebrate who they are and how hard they work to overcome their struggle with Apraxia,” said walk coordinator Laura Maciejewski. “It shows them that they are never alone in their struggle and that their family, friends and community are always by their side.

“The walk is so much more than just a walk. It is a day to show our love and support to every child and their family struggling with this disorder. It gives them a day that is all them and allows an opportunity to show them how exceptional they are.

“If you have never been to a walk, please come and experience it! We know you will have a great time.”

A press release said raising awareness is one of the most tangible ways communities at large can help children with apraxia thrive. Collective increased awareness means children will be diagnosed faster, resulting in better, earlier intervention.

More information is available at http://community.apraxia-kids.org/westernnewyorkwalk.