Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Last year I reached the age of 50 and had to undergo a major operation. Whilst recovering from surgery, I decided that I needed a goal to aim for in 2017 and running my first marathon was certainly going to be a challenge! At that time I was approached by the National Autistic Society to help them raise funds for this charity which is very close to my heart. The reason being that my youngest son Sean was diagnosed at the age of 4 with Aspergers Syndrome (one of the many disabilities on the autistic spectrum) This charity aims to help transform the lives of everyone living with autism and to build awareness and acceptance of what this condition is. Autism is a life long disability, it has 'no cure' and children do not 'grow out of it' but become adults who have to live with the challenges of a sensory loaded world. 

So I have decided to take on the mammoth task of running the world famous New York marathon in November, culminating with a finish in Central Park itself. I am hoping to raise £2000 for this amazing charity by running the 26 mile race within this iconic city.

My son Sean is now 13 and has a number of coping strategies for different situations. For example, when we go to watch our team Hibernian play, crowds and noise at a match can be difficult due to the sensory overload this creates but he finds his own ways of coping whilst still enjoying the match and he loves the goal celebrations. I take my inspiration from him every day and I need no other motivation to keep persevering with this challenge. As such I will be wearing a special t-shirt reminding me of his perseverance throughout his life so far and how very proud I am of him.

Thank you very much for your support and encouragement. Please donate whatever you can, no matter how small. Lots of small amounts can make a huge difference.

Karlynn xx (#persevere)