NACOA's latest research indicates that there are at least 920,000 children and young people, under the age of 18, in the UK today living in a home where one or both parents have a problem with alcohol. Seventy percent of these children will try to hide the problem from the outside world. They are often frightened and isolated, with no one to turn to for help. NACOA responds by providing information, advice and support through its free, confidential telephone helpline (0800 358 3456).
I have never taken part in a sporting event in my life, but am determined to get into shape this year to enjoy more 'life' and I want to raise money for the wonderful NACOA in the process.
Some call the helpline to talk about the madness they are surrounded by and a few of the very young ones call to ask for a bedtime story to be read to them, from someone who won't be horrible.
I'm a very proud Trustee for NACOA and also a COA too; my mum lost her life to the illness almost 3 years ago; even when they're gone and no matter how old you are, you're always a COA.
A COA's life can be filled with volatility, pain and uncertainty and NACOA provides an essential lifeline that helps them realise they are not responsible for their parent's drinking or the subsequent trouble it often causes.
So, I've ditched the chocolate and am in training 'right now', getting ready to take part in the Great North Swim in September 2009, please see www.GreatNorthSwim.org for details.
Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The National Association For Children Of Alcoholics gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.
So please sponsor me today no amount is too small, I know times are tough, but if I can find 18,000 people at £1 each, I'll hit my target!
There are around 3.5 million COA's in the UK and every one of them needs to know about the comfort they can find through NACOA; be sure to tell any COA's you know about this outstanding charity and their shining ray of light.
Tracey Smith is a writer/broadcaster on sustainable living and author of 'The Book of Rubbish Ideas' and makes a personal donation to NACOA for each copy sold.
Swim Swim Swim :)Donation by Al Tepper
on
11/09/09
Amazing Tracey, very inspiring!! It's great to know that every penny you raise will go a long way to making a difference in COAS lives. xDonation by Emma Spiegler
on
11/08/09
£40.00+ £11.28 Gift Aid
Swim Tracey Swim! Good luck! Hope you enjoy it. xxDonation by Cassandra Ohlson
on
29/07/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
Thanks for keeping that chink of light alive for all the coas out there living in fear. LOL Hilary and all at NacoaDonation by Hilary Henriques
on
29/07/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
go girl go!Donation by lyn hemming
on
12/02/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
A mad but wonderful idea. Donation by Toby Sawday
on
06/02/09
£20.00+ £5.64 Gift Aid
Donation by Ann Cooke-Yarborough
on
06/02/09
£20.00+ £5.64 Gift Aid
for my dear friendDonation by Helen Roberts
on
05/02/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
This is most definitely the most worthwhile £25, I've spent in a long time. Go girl :-D xDonation by Karen Cannard
on
17/01/09
£25.00+ £7.05 Gift Aid
When you are in the middle of Windermere chick, just remember all those things that live in the depths, ok? that will make you swim a bit faster! :0)Donation by Patricia Lack
on
15/01/09
£196.25+ £55.35 Gift Aid
well done and good luck to a lady of deeds - stay in the swim and thanks for doing thisDonation by Dave Hampton
on
14/01/09
£20.00+ £5.64 Gift Aid
We've not met, but working at Nacoa one day a week I have heard so much about you. Good luckDonation by Sally Sterland (Jenny's sister)
on
14/01/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
I am so proud of you. You make such a difference to all the lives you touch. I am with you 100%Donation by Hubby
on
13/01/09
£30.00+ £8.46 Gift Aid
You go girl!!! Donation by Jessica Zetteler
on
13/01/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
huge thanks from everyone at NACOADonation by Simon Ward
on
13/01/09
£50.00+ £14.10 Gift Aid
You're a star Tracey, hopefully the water will be warmer then.Donation by Jenny Palmer
on
07/01/09
£10.00+ £2.82 Gift Aid
Good for you girl! Please can I have your Kit Kats now that you don't want them?Donation by Jeremy R
on
06/01/09
and am in training 'right now', getting ready to take part in the Great North Swim in September 2009, please see www.GreatNorthSwim.org for details.
no amount is too small, I know times are tough, but if I can find 18,000 people at £1 each, I'll hit my target!
