Thank you for visiting my fundraising page. Please dig deep and sponsor me online for my terrifying charity tandem parachute  jump for Autism Speaks taking place on the 29th March 2009 (postponed 3 times due to weather).

FINALLY THE JUMP WENT AHEAD AS PLANNED, SO THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SPONSORED ME FOR SUCH A WORTHY CAUSE XX

Autism Speaks is the only registered charity in the UK raising funds specifically for continuing research into the causes of autism, a confusing and isolating life long disability.  In comparison to the tireless fundraising of this charity, the government provide only a fraction of their research funding to this condition even though 1 in 100 children are now affected; it is also one of the most signifcant and misunderstood developmental disorders.     

It is because of this that the role of fundraisers is vital, hence the reason why I am throwing myself out of a plane attached only to a strapping man (hopefully) and a piece of material.

Your donation would help to make a difference to the life of my wonderful son and the 107,000 children across the country like him living with autism.  It would give hope of a brighter more secure future.

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

So please sponsor me now and open your heart to autism!

Many thanks for your support.  Feel free to read the poem below which sums up my feelings as a parent of an autistic child. 

My Child With Autism

Like each and every one of us my child is unique, he is special, and he is also autistic

The condition is part of him, yet it is the beauty he possesses that defines him

His uniqueness is my joy, his smile my inspiration

Humbling to us is his ability to forgive, his lack of malice, his acceptance of all

He will not judge a book by its cover, he will look for the beauty beneath

Such qualities within are what sets him apart, not the disability immediately seen

My life is not blighted by what could have been

As a lot has been learnt on the journey travelled, although long and unforeseen

The courage I possess, the proudness I feel, the joys of being called mummy are honest and real

My reason for being, the light of my life, my baby, my boy, my achievement in life

I want to thank you son for being you

My perfect child, so courageous, honest and true

Kirsty Thompson ®