Wheels of Hope — Autism Awareness Bike Ride

Ada O'Quinn with Wheels of Hope was my guest on today's show and she really gave me an education when it comes to autism. Did you know that autism effects 1 in every 68 children in America? The instances are much higher for boys than girls. Autism effects 1 in every 42 boys, but only 1 in every 189 girls. I also learned that about a third of people with autism remain non-verbal all their lives. People who deal with autism also tend to have problems with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures, sleep disturbances, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and phobias.

Autism is one of those problems that is very misunderstood, but organizations like the St. Nicholas Center in Lake Charles are fighting the good fight and they need our help. One way we can help to increase understanding about the problem is coming up this weekend with Wheels of Hope.

Wheels of Hope is a fully supported charity bike ride featuring 5 of the best routes that Southwest Louisiana has to offer. The rides are all different lengths ranging from 5 to 75 miles. These rides showcase the natural beauty of Sam Houston Jones State Park and the Calcasieu River system.

All proceeds from the Wheels of Hope event support St. Nicholas Center for Children. Riders will also be treated to some of the best foods Southwest Louisiana has to offer.  After the ride, you can chow down on jambalaya, grilled duck breasts wrapped in bacon, chicken and Andouille sausage gumbo, boudin, venison wrapped in bacon, turtle sauce piquant, fried shrimp, and much more!

Register to ride HERE