Hi! I'm Ian Grasmeder...... I'm profoundly deaf with a cochlear implant. I've been running for the last 8 years and recently became a triathlete after completing the May Day Triathlon in well, May! I'm aiming to raise as much funding for deafPLUS over the next year as possible by doing a series of sporting events such as 10kms, half mararthons, sportives and triathlons completing the series by doing the London Marathon in 2018. So, thank you for taking the time to read this and if you can, sponsor me to help other deaf people. If not, then can come and cheer us on at the events I'm listing below........ but first......

Here's a little history.......

My father used to be the Chairman / Treasurer of the NDCS back in the 1970s-1980s and it primarily focused on the needs of children and teenagers. Now that I'm in my 40s, I feel it more apt that I help deaf adults in need of all manner of support by raising the funds deafPLUS need. I've set a target of £1,000 for the time being so would like to achieve this, better still, beat it! (That's the main challenge here!)

I love the sporting challenges that I set up for myself (and sometimes I get my arm twisted by others to do things like that......!) So, would like to put these to good use by supporting deafPLUS who need the finance to support other deaf people - this might be.....

* Promoting independence in their daily living and in their participation in society. 

* Developing their potential by giving them a leg up to employment or setting up a business and providing training skills. 

* Promoting well-being by providing social and cultural opportunities to overcome isolation as well as health workshops.

* Promoting social change by improving deaf awareness within society and removing barriers that may hinder deaf people to fulfilling their potential. 

The events I am doing for deafPLUS are:

25th June: Lordshill 10km

9th July: St Swithuns Triathlon

6th August: Chiselhurst Half Marathon

24th September: Winchester Half Marathon

There will be other events........ watch this space!