William’s West Midlands Buggy Marathon, 22nd June 2024

In 2022 I left my career as an Earth scientist to provide more care for my autistic son, William. This was largely due to William’s frequent exclusions from school, which made working life difficult. Since this time, I have forged a new career supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families, with a focus on education. This includes tutoring neurodivergent students who have difficulties with learning at school.

Over the last year we have had further life challenges. My wife (William’s mum) was diagnosed with cancer and underwent intensive chemotherapy. During this time family life shifted away from our usual active excursions, so William and I took up regular buggy running as a means of getting fresh air and exercise. William enjoyed being pushed along at pace, as well as having the opportunity of getting down to explore passing sites of interest. And I think we both benefited from the consistency of our runs in a newly uncertain world.

Since this time, life has somewhat settled for us. My wife responded positively to her chemotherapy and William now attends a special school where his needs are accommodated. This has enabled me to expand my work, with a focus on neurodivergent students who struggle to afford necessary tutoring. With this cohort in mind, I set up our Education Fund, through which students can access free sessions provided by myself and other specialist tutors. To date this fund has financed 25 sessions, although it is now in need of donations.

Therefore, William and I will be harnessing our shared buggy running passion to raise money for our Education Fund. We will be doing this by completing a buggy marathon within the West Midlands area. As William enjoys summertime exploring, the marathon will take place on the Saturday following this year’s summer solstice (22nd June 2024). The route will be of our own design, and will traverse the Black Country and Birmingham areas (see www.theautismadventure.co.uk/buggy-marathon-route).

The marathon will be focused on William, with the route comprising sites that are meaningful to him. William will also have ample opportunity to get out of his buggy and explore, so our time will not be of great importance. Enroute, we hope to connect with other local runners, who may wish to support or join us for a phase of our 26.2-mile journey.

Any sponsorship is greatly appreciated, and all received funds will be used directly for our tutoring service (£30 pays for one online tutoring session, including tutor time, resources and administrative costs). We sincerely hope you can support or even join us on our newest adventure!

Paul Anderson

William’s Dad

Founder of The Autism Adventure support hub

www.theautismadventure.co.uk