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HILLSBOROUGH: Brilliant Brains Cited by autism group

They did well in raising money to support research

   Autism Speaks recently recognized a local team, The Brilliant Brains, for placing 13th in fund raising at the North Central Jersey “Walk Now for Autism Speaks” event last October. Team captain Nathaniel P. Brilliant, a junior at Hillsborough High School, accepted the award on Feb. 26.
   Autism spectrum disorder is now diagnosed in 1 in every 88 children, including 1 in 54 boys, making it the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
   ”During Autism Awareness Month in April 2012, I presented to several HHS classes and administrators my understanding and journey with autism and Asperger Syndrome,” said Nathaniel. “That fall I walked in my first Walk Now for Autism Speaks in honor of myself. In 2013, 19 other family and friends joined me in fundraising over $4,000 for this important organization and I hope to surpass that in 2014.”
   The Brilliant Brains held fundraisers at Affinity Federal Credit Union and Applebee’s and are planning new events.
   The Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are the signature events for Autism Speaks to support autism research, awareness and advocacy.
   The Brilliant Brains team will be back for the annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks fundraising and awareness event on Oct. 19 at Nomahegan Park, Cranford. Event proceeds will support Autism Speaks’ work, both locally and nationally, to increase awareness about autism, fund innovative autism research and family services, and advocate for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
   For information about the Cranford walk, visit www.walknowforautismspeaks.org or contact Nathaniel Brilliant.