UPDATE: I finished the GNR09 in 1hr 50mins and enjoyed every second of it! A huge thanks to everyone who has sponsored/donated...it means a lot.

Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

In September my family was blessed with twins (a girl and boy - Katie & Alex - who are doing amazingly well!) as an addition to our two-year-old, Lucy. Alex was confirmed as having Down's Syndrome shortly after birth which, I have to say, was a big shock.

We didn't know too much detail about it but the support and literature available from the Down's Syndrome Association (DSA) was invaluable in filling in the gaps. The DSA may not be a charity you've considered supporting before, but I can say with certainty that they help people every single day.

I aim to update my new running blog with my progress along the way, so please donate what you can and come back to see how I'm doing.

======================================================

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Down's Syndrome Association 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 now!

======================================================

I have never entered a proper race in my life but have already started training and entered a 10km race in April...fingers crossed

======================================================

More information on the DSA can be found at: DSA

Examples of how your donations will be used are:

£1

The cost of producing and issuing booklets or factsheets providing callers with vital information to allay needless fears

£5

All it takes to provide up to 30 minutes of telephone support, counselling or advice to anyone with questions or concerns

£25

Providing an hour of face to face support to a parent from one of our trained Information Officers on any aspect of living with Down's syndrome

£50

Specialist support from our Education Officer or Benefits Adviser offering clear, helpful guidance through the regulatory mazes

£100

A regional development officer can visit a key group of healthcare professionals (hospital midwives, health workers) to help them understand the latest in best practice

£250

Organising and facilitating a meeting of young adults with Down's syndrome anywhere in the UK to provide the chance for them to discuss issues and make decisions for themselves

£1,000

Producing and distributing 500 copies of our newsletter for members, giving the latest news on all issues relating to Down's syndrome

£5,000

The cost of drafting and printing a new information leaflet (adding to our existing range of 25 publications) on a further crucial aspect of living with Down's syndrome

£10,000

What it takes to maintain our Helpline services for one month