RUNNING FOR AUTISM SPEAKS - IN HONOUR OF MY SISTER SUE!!

When I first heard about Autism, it was when my sister sat our family down and told us her youngest son Callum had been diagnosed with severe autistic spectrum disorder at the age of 15 months.  We were so baffled and shocked, as we had not come across this in our family history.  What did this mean?

Autism is a life long disorder, varying in severity and impact from individual to individual.  Those with Autism have difficulties communicating and forming relationships with others.  They also find it hard to perform 'normal' everyday tasks and make sense of the world around them.  In the UK, a child is diagnosed with Autism every 20 minutes of every working day.  It is a serious and growing challenge, around the world!!  It's true that Callum will never be able to integrate into society in a 'normal' way and will always remain dependant on his loved ones.

Running is certainly not a natural pastime of mine, and in fact I get a 'stitch' merely running to the end of my street!  So this is a personal challenge for me to do the 5K run in Hyde Park this September.  More importantly, I am doing it to raise money for Autism Speaks in honour of my sister Susan (37 years old) who sadly passed away last year having battled with cancer.  She had dedicated her short life to her family injecting such a glow of happiness and love.  When I see Callum, I see Sue's cheeky smile and spirit of energy.  That is the gift that she has given her son, and yet Callum will never understand where his mummy has gone!

To help raise money and awareness for Autism Speaks, we are taking a step closer to understanding and hopefully changing the lives of those affected by this disorder - in a positive way!!

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to donate: Autism Speaks will receive your money electronically and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in Gift Aid will be added to your donation at no cost to you.

Please donate generously.

Many thanks for your support.