One of my best and oldest friends Tessa had her second child Rosie 6 weeks after Lizzie was born. Rosie has Downs Syndrome and whilst the same age, Lizzie and Rosie have grown up in very different ways, which becomes more and more evident as they get older. As 18 year olds, the girls are looking at very different futures. Lizzie is independent and will leave home and go to university very soon. Rosie and other young adults like her would like to do '18 year old' activities such as the cinema, bowling, parties, shopping and many more, however it is not that simple, they are vulnerable and many need structure and supervision to engage in social activities. The parents of these young adults also need support, unlike parents such as myself, who can afford to sit back and watch our 18 year olds get on with it!

Tessa, Rosie's mum, with her endless ideas and enthusiasm has set up this new charity (THINK18). The charity not only raises money in order to help our special young adults to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential, but also raises awareness about the additional needs that these special people have when they turn 18 and become adults.

If 100 people donate £18, I will achieve my target. Then all I need to do is cycle 100 miles in 8 hours to do my part!