Thousands rally at Jones Beach autism fundraiser

Tens of thousands of people rallied at Jones Beach on Sunday to raise funds for autism research and to call on Gov. David A. Paterson to sign legislation to expand autism treatments paid for by health insurers.

The 11th annual fundraiser for Autism Speaks, the national nonprofit that finances research into the cause, prevention and treatment of the condition, drew more than 29,000 people.

Walk chairman Michael Giangregorio, of Merrick, said the event is about "giving a voice to a community . . . [and] demanding equality." His son, Nicholas, 9, has autism. Giangregorio said he hopes the walk will raise awareness of the growing number of children with the disorder.

The crowd included family and friends of the autistic, who wore colorful T-shirts supporting the cause. More than 500 fundraising teams smiled as they walked across the beach's boardwalk with signs like "Brady's Bunch," "Brian's Buddies," and "Christian's Crew." The day featured speakers, informational booths, and bounce houses.

Temple Grandin, 63, a professor at Colorado State University who suffers from autism, told the crowd she was initially diagnosed with brain damage but through the help of active nannies and teachers was able to attend school and be active. "There is a huge need for research," she said.

Coleen Venticinque, of Ronkonkoma, her husband, and dozens of family and friends attended the walk dressed in bright yellow T-shirts. Her son, Joseph, 4, has autism and attends a special school. "We're doing what we can to find a cure," she said.

Venticinque, like many, said she is hoping Paterson will sign a bill to expand autism treatments paid for by health insurers and extend coverage.

The legislation, which would cover screening, diagnosis and treatments such as speech and occupational therapy, was passed by the state Senate and Assembly unanimously in June. It now goes to Paterson.

Austin Shafran, a spokesman for the Senate's Democratic majority, said the Senate plans to send the bill to the governor soon, possibly early this week. "We're hopeful that it will be signed," he said. "It's an extraordinarily important piece of legislation."

A spokesman for Paterson could not be reached Sunday.