Coney Parachute Jump lit-up blue to highlight autism

These folks are a guiding light for autism awareness.

The husband-and-wife duo behind the Coney Island Autism Angels lit Coney Island's Parachute Jump blue on April 2 to celebrate Autism Awareness month. The vice-president of the organization said the annual event was again successful in cultivating awareness around the month's focus.

"It went beautifully, like always," said Coney Islander Veronica Droz, who started the organization with her husband Anthony after her now-17-year-old daughter Tori was diagnosed with autism. "It's all about bringing awareness and acceptance for our children."

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Parents of kids on the autism spectrum were in attendance to celebrate the light-up, along with Councilman Mark Treyger (D?Coney Island).

"I'm incredibly proud that we had the opportunity to organize this event again, because it's as important today as it was five years ago when put it together for the first time," Treyger said. "The need for us all to come together as a community and support these children and their families still exists. I thank the Coney Island Autism Angels for their partnership and for being there for many families in our neighborhood time and again. I also thank Community Board 13, the NYPD 60th Precinct, Luna Park, and all of the local businesses, leaders, and residents who continue to join us for these events as we raise awareness about autism and grow and expand this crucial support system."

Reach reporter Julianne McShane at (718) 260?2523 or by e-mail at jmcshane@cngloc al.com. Follow her on Twitter @juliannemcshane.

Posted 12:00 am, April 6, 2018