Andy Moy is our Hero – our EveryDay Hero – who is raising funds for the Fragile X Association Australia by competing in the Newcastle Olympic Distance Triathlon. His brother, Laurie, is the inspiration for this kind and generous effort.

Andrew and Family taking part in a Family Fun Run in Sydney

15 years ago at the age of 15 Laurie, who had previously been diagnosed with Autism, was discovered to be affected by Fragile X Syndrome. Laurie lives with his mum and dad, Pat and Geoff, near Chesterfield in Derbyshire, UK; where Andrew himself grew up. Pat has been reading our newsletters and told Andrew that she was impressed by what she saw as a strong Fragile X Community in Australia.

Laurie with his mother, Pat

Andrew says that his brother is his inspiration for this fundraising effort and jokingly adds that the “rest is just down to a small swim, cycle, and run” The “rest” involves a 1500m swim in the harbour, a 40km cycle and a 10km run!

This triathlon will be held in Newcastle, NSW, on the weekend of Saturday 22 November and Sunday 23 November 2008. The scenic course takes in the Newcastle Harbour, Foreshore, Honeysuckle Precinct , Beaches and King Edward Park. Andrew will likely not have time to enjoy his surroundings considering the exertions of the day but the spectators will be able to enjoy pleasant views.

Our thanks go out to Andrew for not only raising funds but also for bringing more attention to Fragile X Syndrome. Efforts like this go a long way towards ensuring that, as with Andrew’s brother, people are correctly diagnosed with Fragile X and can be treated appropriately. Fragile X Syndrome is the most common known gene cause of Autism. Up to 6% of autistic children have Fragile X and around a third of those affected with Fragile X have some degree of autism. It is also important that the one in 250 and one in 800 males who are carriers of the disorder are diagnosed because of the particular health problems they may face.

If you wish to sponsor Andrew’s triathlon and raise funds for Fragile X Syndrome you can do so via his Everyday Hero page.

Good Luck and thank you, Andrew.