DANIEL Giles is on a mission to shine a spotlight on autism.
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The Bendigo resident will walk for 24 hours next weekend to raise money for the Turn A Life Around initiative.
Mr Giles said communication was one of the most difficult challenges facing people with autism and money from the walk would go towards purchasing new technologies for people on the autism spectrum.
"One the biggest challenges is trying to communicate, and in particular, trying to get my point across," he said.
"I have benefited greatly from the iPad (I received from) Turn a Life Around.
"I use it to help organise my schedule and communicate with people, especially when I am travelling and away from my computer.
"Long before portable iOS devices, a donated computer helped me enormously.
"I doubt I would have developed my writing, communication and social skills to the degree I have without it."
Mr Giles said he hoped to raise awareness of the needs of people on the autism spectrum through the walk.
"I believe that modern devices can now provide the same opportunity for other children and adults on the autism spectrum - especially as their portability and ease-of-use enables greater opportunities for these things to happen," he said.
"I know that (these devices) can be such a help but they are expensive - especially for families, students and adults on the autism spectrum.
"The walk will promote an enhanced understanding and acceptance of autism, and raise much-needed funds.
"I love walking and have been training for weeks."
Autism ambassadors Tony Langdon and Leigh Taylor will accompany Mr Giles on the walk, along with community leaders and residents.
Mr Giles said he was hoping to raise enough money to buy 20 new devices.
The walk is at the Rotary Gateway Park in Kangaroo Flat.
It starts at 10am on Saturday June 7 and finishes at 10am on Sunday June 8.
Donations can be made to the Regional Information and Advocacy Council, using BSB 033 254 and account number 449933.
People making donations are asked to quote TALA.
To get a tax deductible receipt call 1800 221 944.
Donations can also be made on the day of the event.
One the biggest challenges is trying to communicate, and in particular, trying to get my point across.
- Daniel Giles