Howard's Run the Dream campaign began March 25 when he dipped his toe into the Atlantic Ocean in St. John's, Newfoundland.
This week, some 2,700 kilometres later, he arrived in the nation's capital where, on Canada Day, he met with federal Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion and Kathleen Provost, executive director of Autism Society Canada.
"Jonathan's motto, 'Dream as though you've never failed,' is inspiring for our community and a perfect fit with ASC's mission to help all Canadians with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) reach their full potential," said Provost.
Upon his arrival in Ottawa, Howard was joined on a five-kilometre run by residents, Senator Jim Munson (Ottawa - Rideau Canal) and Lucy van Oldenbarneveld, host of CBC News at Six, Ottawa.
On Monday, the Lorne Park Secondary School graduate picks up the pace again, heading west across Ontario towards Winnipeg. Howard will be joined on that leg of his solo run by Terry Robinson, two-time Canadian Paralympian who uses a wheelchair for mobility.
The duo leaves Parliament Hill at 9 a.m.
So far on his journey, Howard, who has worked with autistic children, has met provincial premiers and many other political leaders, and has been formally recognized within the legislative assemblies of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec.
In addition to raising money for the cause, his efforts have also prompted discussions regarding governments' approaches to Autism Spectrum Disorders.
As he continues, Howard plans to run 43 kilometres daily, six days a week. He'll rest the other day.
A sports enthusiast who plays basketball and football, Howard underwent a marathon training regimen to prepare for the cross-Canada trek which, when completed, will have seen the Mississauga man visit more than 650 communities in 10 provinces.
Howard is expected to finish the run in late December in Victoria, B.C.
For more information, visit www.runthedream.ca.
jslack@mississauga.net
