Thank you for visiting our fundraising page! STOP PRESS They did it! Paul, Grant and Iain jumped out at 4,200ft at 5:30pm Saturday 30 August. More details and a photo on www.jumpforhenry.co.uk WHAT IS AUTISM? Autism is a brain disorder that affects development. Autism can affect a person’s ability to communicate, relate to others, and interact with his or her surroundings. Signs of autism usually appear by about 18 months of age. It is usually diagnosed between the ages of two and three. There is no cure for autism but early diagnosis and treatment can help people with autism lead more fulfilling lives. Useful information: We will be parachuting over and into the airfield at RAF Weston-on-the-Green, Bicester, Oxfordshire on either Saturday 30 August or Sunday 31 August 2008 having had a day's training on the Saturday. It will be a ‘static line’ parachute jump from 3,000 feet! Paul's personal statement: Why Jump for Henry? Henry is our five year old son who was diagnosed with autism in October 2006. As Henry finds every day a challenge, I decided to set myself a challenge to raise awareness and of course vital money for the charity that supports autism. Their support and resources are crucial for families like us coming to terms with a diagnosis. This year will also mark a milestone birthday for me (40) so instead of having a party I thought I would do something far more worthwhile. Jumping out of a plane? I must be mad!! Grant's personal statement: I asked Paul if there was anything I could do to help and he said "you can hold my hand!" As Henry's godfather I have an insight, albeit a small one, of the challenges that Henry (and Paul and Louise his parents) face in the coming years. Autism has no cure but there is much that can be done to help Henry learn, communicate and do the things we take for granted but it takes time and effort. The effect of autism is literally “life-changing” for the families involved. It is from this perspective, as a parent, that I feel compelled to throw myself from a perfectly good aircraft. This is my first fund raising event (and it may be my last) so please help me raise the maximum amount possible. Iain's personal statement: I sure I am not alone in saying that most of us tend to have little understanding of the daily challenges faced by people with Autistic Spectrum conditions. People also seem to fear what they do not understand. I have always tried to support charities that are close to home, whether that be geographically or emotionally. When I realised that I could actually do something to help Henry and hopefully raise awareness of Autism, I jumped at the chance (no pun intended). When thinking of donating to this fantastic cause please look around and think. Then please dig deep, help us reach the goal! Donating: Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor us. The National Autistic Society will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% (till April 2011- hooray!) in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you. Together we can make a difference for all special children like Henry. Many thanks for your support.
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