Father-Son Adventure: Hiking for Autism Awareness

0:00This is Cory with the story, and here's what is making news across Sydney right now. A father and his 18-year-old son from Australia's New South Wales South Coast are embarking on six major hikes this year, covering more than one. 1,325 kilometers around the world. Daniel Toul took a year-off work to join Ashton, who lives with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Tourette. Syndrome, and is mostly non-verbal. The outdoor adventures tap into Ashton's passion for bushwalking, helping him thrive in ways daily life can't match. They kicked off in New Zealand with a Kepler and Milford tracks, and now they're 30 days into a 600-kilometer trek from Wollongong, too. Malacuda in Victoria. Fellow hikers often stop to learn about Ashton's condition, turning the journey into an unexpected way to build understanding and tolerance for. Tourette syndrome. For the tool family, these walks have brought real changes. Ashton, who loves bounding ahead on trails, is laughing more

1:01and even starting to string together, five or six words at a time. Progress his dad never. Expect it so soon. The fresh air and sunshine keep his energy in check, and bring out a calmer, happier side. Next up after Malacuda is the 15-day Lera Pinta trail in the northern territory, followed by the Walker's Ote route from France to Switzerland, and the West Highland Way in Scotland to wrap up the year. Daniel stresses the challenges of remote areas, like planning for injuries or wildlife, but first aid and caution keep them safe. Do it all. This gap year builds lasting memories for father and son, showing how shared adventures can open doors for those facing tough. Challenges ahead.