Thank you for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

As a family we'd like to raise money for Rugby Autism Network (RAN), as it's a charity that's very close to our hearts, following Jasper's journey to having an Autism diagnosis and life beyond.

We know first-hand how challenging and isolating this journey can be and would love to be able to continue to raise awareness and acceptance of Autism, the amazing RAN charity and add to the resources and support they can offer. We'd love to give something back to a charity that has helped us so much already and continues to be a real lifeline to us and so many other families.

The Challenge:

Team Spence will complete a total of 40.2 Miles (65km) to Fundraise for Rugby Autism Network.

Sam is running 13.1 Miles (21km) in the Great North Run Half Marathon on Sunday 11th September. 60,000 determined and dedicated runners make the Great North Run the World’s biggest and best half marathon – famous for its warm North East welcome, unbeatable atmosphere and the millions raised for good causes.

Glyn in running 13.1 Miles (21km) in the Royal Parks Half Marathon on Sunday 9th October. This stunning central London Half Marathon, takes in some of the capital's world-famous landmarks on closed roads, and four of London's eight Royal Parks - Hyde Park, The Green Park, St James's Park and Kensington Gardens.

Jasper will be running/walking 14 Miles (22.5km), often dressed as a Pirate, throughout August/September/October to complete his Pirate Gold 14 Mile Virtual Challenge.

The Charity:

Rugby Autism Network (RAN) is a local Registered Charity which aims to support parents and carers of those on the spectrum, children on the spectrum and their siblings.

Rugby Autism Network was created in 2009 by a local parent as there was very little support available in Rugby. The organisation became a registered charity in 2016. In 2017 they won the prestigious Rugby’s Pride Award at the Rugby FM Pride of Rugby awards. They currently support over 250 associate members and their families, over 1000 parents through the RAN chat group and have an audience of over 2000 local people on their Facebook page.

They organise events which offer a chance for parents and carers to get to know each other. Gatherings such as breakfast support meetings with occasional guest speakers, autism-friendly activities and opportunities for the children to make new friends and enabling families to enjoy more quality time together. RAN also provides equipment to borrow/hire and subsidises courses to encourage the building of Autism knowledge within our community.

The membership benefits vary throughout the year, but typically include:

• Discounts on workshops and webinars

• Rebates on entry fees and parking for days out

• Access to resources

Thank you for helping us raise funds to continue to offer this support - we know first-hand how much it is valued and appreciated and will make a huge difference to all RAN Members.

If you would like any further information, please contact the charity at: admin@rugbyautismnetwork.co.uk or visit https://rugbyautismnetwork.co.uk/

Many Thanks,

Sam, Glyn & Jasper Spence

Team Spence & RAN are also being very kindly supported by these amazing and generous local businesses:

The Wave - an award winning, indoor water park in the heart of Coventry. [https://thewavecoventry.com]

Luminate Coombe Abbey - a captivating light trail through the stunning, historic grounds of Coombe Abbey Park (https://luminate.live/coombe-abbey)

The Dice Box. Warwickshire’s first dedicated board game café, located in Leamington Spa. [www.the-dice-box.co.uk]

Dominos Pizza, American style pizzas. (www.dominos.co.uk)

MAIA, 6-7 High Street, Rugby. Authentic Italian gelato and coffee. [www.facebook.com/maiagelato]

Kaspas Desserts, The Swan Centre, Rugby. American ice cream and dessert parlour. [www.facebook.com/kaspasrugby]

Libertine Burger. Award winning burger restaurant and takeaway, based in Rugby and Leamington Spa. [www.libertineburger.com]

Pizza Vera, 266 Hillmorton Road, Rugby. Italian, Vegetarian and Vegan style pizzeria. [www.facebook.com/pizzavera2018]

Nyam A Foodz. Fantastic home cooked Jamaica cuisine based at the Holy Bush Pub, Lawford Road, Rugby. [www.facebook.com/nyamafood]

Fish Plus, 153a Bilton Road, Rugby. An award winning fish and chip shop. [www.facebook.com/fishplusrugby]

Hill Murry Indian Restaurant and Takeaway, 1 Eastfield Place, Rugby. Curry house favourites and in-house creations. [http://hillmurry.co.uk/index.html]

Cinnabon, based in ASDA, Rugby. American bakery of hot cinnamon rolls and more. [www.cinnabon.uk]