Walk Now for Autism Speaks held its largest event in the Dallas-Fort Worth area on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015 at Globe Life Park in Arlington.

“Autism Speaks’ annual walks are significant within our community because they raise awareness for Autism Spectrum Disorder,” junior Brooke Benjamin said. “Autism Speaks provides so many opportunities to individuals and families whose lives have been touched by Autism, and the organization itself is very near and dear to my heart.”

Benjamin participates in the Walk every year by contributing funds and organizing her team, Team Jackson.

“In 2010, I created Team Jackson to honor my brother and raise money for Autism Speaks,” Benjamin said. “My goal this year was $4,000; double the amount I raised last year. He [Jackson] inspires me every day with how far he has come and I wanted to celebrate that.”

Junior Michael Sebbag, Benjamin’s best friend, also felt the need to show his support for all individuals diagnosed with autism due to a strong connection he had forged with Jackson.

“At first it was hard to believe he was autistic because he seemed so alive, happy and normal. He came off as a typical young kid,” Sebbag said. “I participated in the Walk to show my support and love for him as well as all autistic individuals.”

Sebbag was excited for his first year to actually attend the Walk after years of simply making donations.

“By far my favorite part about the Walk was seeing so many people come together and show their support,” Sebbag said. “Whether it be by walking or donating, it’s really amazing and moving to see that people do care for others and believe in the hope for a cure.”

Junior Tori Pizette was first introduced to the Walk through Benjamin and her family as well. Like Benjamin, Pizette is directly impacted by a family member who is autistic.

“The Walk for autism has significance to me because of my sister, Sydney,” Pizette said. “She is a student here at Plano West and has a mild form of autism. I wanted to do the Walk for her, and also for everyone else I know with autism.”

Pizette plans to bolster awareness and support for the Walk in the future.

“I would encourage other students and faculty to talk about the event around the school or help raise awareness by tweeting about it or getting it out there on social media.” Pizette said. “My goal is to spread the news about the Walk to more people and to get people excited about wanting to participate.”

Check out Team Jackson at http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/dfw/teamjackson2015