Autistic Runner Leaves His Comfort Zone

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. -- Alan Baker, 20, runs more than five miles a day on his home treadmill. The autistic man from Thousand Oaks stays inside and avoids crowds because he feels it’s easier for him to function.
But on June 3, Baker left his comfort zone to participate in the 2012 Love Run for Senior Concerns in Westlake Village.
“Despite the fact that I’m autistic, I did it because I like to run and it was for a good cause—Meals on Wheels,” said Baker, who finished fifth in his division, completing the 5K in 23 minutes, 31 seconds.