I have been involved with DELTA for over half my life now, and throughout that time, I have seen the difference it has made to many people including myself.

DELTA (please visit our page for further details http://deafeducation.org.uk/) is about supporting parents of deaf children and encouraging them to realise their childrens full potential through listening and talking. As a deaf person myself, taking this approach is something I also feel very strongly for.

Too often though many health authorities once a child is diagnosed as deaf, feel that the only way forward is through British Sign Language without exploring other means with the parents. This is where DELTA and our volunteers come in, many of which are made up from parents of deaf children, young deaf adults and teachers of the deaf. By sharing all our experience and resources we are able to set up summer schools and activity weekends and guidance phamplets to provide to parents.

All of this however does cost money and as a charity we have to rely on donations in order to continue this important work.

DELTA has become so important to me, providing a platform for myself in terms of confidence in dealing with my deafness, enabling me to get on in the wider world and making many friends along the way. I have also over the years seen the difference DELTA makes to parents, watching them go home with happiness knowing they aren't alone in the world, and that more importantly, just because their child is deaf, does not mean their child will not be able to get on in life. Indeed, I have watched myself many deaf children who have attended DELTA events grow up to be successful in mainstream schools, go to university or college and go on to successful jobs.

In order to help ensure this work can continue, I have decided to enter the Virgin London Marathon 2015 for the first time and run for DELTA to raise as much funds as possible.

So please, take the time out to read about DELTA and please make a donation, all donations no matter how big or small are gratefully received.

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