News and Knowledge

Marine Corps veteran, Jason Wiederstein made up his mind in 2016 to run the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C.  Jason always thought he’d try his luck in the lottery, but while registering for the race he discovered OAR and immediately knew he had to join the team and run for his son who’s on the autism spectrum.  Jason not only ran the Marine Corps Marathon for OAR in 2016 but he also spoke at the runner’s recognition dinner.  His pre-race words of encouragement gave fellow teammates a boost to finish the race strong and conquer the daily challenges of autism.

Since then Jason has been a RUN FOR AUTISM team member for the 2017 Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon and most recently the 2018 Houston Marathon.  After running two marathons just a week apart (Rock ‘n’ roll San Antonio and Bryan/College Station) last December Jason became a “marathon maniac” and has decided to take a small, much needed break from racing.  He plans to come back strong and throw on his OAR singlet again for the Tough Mudder Central Texas and Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Half Marathon in December.

Outside of running Jason and his family still find ways to support OAR; “we advocate for OAR through awareness and meet up groups in our community.  Being a part of the RUN FOR AUTISM team means that I’m helping my son and others like him have assistance in the future when they need it.  Like all parents, we want our children to become independent, successful adults and OAR works towards that.”

All RUN FOR AUTISM team members have their own personal reasons for running in support of OAR.  We asked Jason what his reason was and his response was genuine; “I run with OAR because we’re not searching for a cure, we’re helping those with this condition cope with the life they’ve been given.  I like that objective better!”