In June 2015 our son was referred to the paediatrician due to developmental delay, since seeing the paediatrician and various other professionals our son has been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder and is under a physio for delayed motor skills. Support is limited in our 'different' family life but we are lucky to live in Belper where a local charity runs a group called Special Friends.

Special friends is an amazing charity for families in Amber Valley. I first contacted the group in July 2015.

In a world where ASD is still relatively misunderstood I was struggling for support and turned to the group. I cried to strangers who I now consider friends, with out their support along the new path our family life has taken things would have been very different. I feel like I'm thriving not just surviving, I know where to turn to on good & bad days, I've made life long friends. Professional support is openly received but sometimes there is no substitute for support from other people in the same boat who 'Get It'

Last December my amazing husband, brother in law, nephews & a few friends ran a 5k festive fun run along the A6 to raise money for Special Friends, we were over whelmed with the support and decided to do it again this year.

After the support last year a few more people want to join in the run this time. They'll be other special friend members and friends & family along side, there's also the local running group supporting the local charity too! You shouldn't miss them so if you see them on route give them a toot!

We all appreciate any small donation you feel you could afford so that we can help the group continue to support and make a difference to other families in similar circumstances.

check out their Facebook page for wonderful photos and information on the great support they offer to many families

http://www.facebook.com/specialfriendsbelper