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Mainers Raise $5,000 for Autism Awareness Amid Controversy

4/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Mainers united for Downeast Horizons' Autism Awareness Walk-a-thon, raising nearly $5,000 to support autism initiatives. This uplifting event came on the heels of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s contentious comments labeling autism an "epidemic." Advocates passionately countered, highlighting that autism does not diminish a person's value and that many thrive with community backing.

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Story summary

Mainers united for Downeast Horizons' Autism Awareness Walk-a-thon, raising nearly $5,000 to support autism initiatives. This uplifting event came on the heels of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s contentious comments labeling autism an "epidemic." Advocates passionately countered, highlighting that autism does not diminish a person's value and that many thrive with community backing.