Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

My youngest daughter Amy was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder whilst she was in nursery.  She is currently in Reception and enjoying mainstream education with help from her 121 support, the lovely Sarah.  Amy is progressing and developing above and beyond our wildest expectations.

As parents we were obviously concerned about her transition from nursery to 'big school'  and spent many hours talking with teachers and the LEA trying to agree and understand what support Amy required and also what she was entitled to....... this was not a straight forward process....please read on.

When we heard about the SNAP Cymru organisation my wife contacted  them for guidance and I cannot praise or thank them enough.  They guided, supported and helped us every step of the way and without them, I believe our experience would have been so much different.   

When I found out I had been successful in obtaining a ballot place in the London Marathon,  I wanted to return the favour and this is my small way of thanking them for all the support they have given my family. 

I contacted SNAP to tell them of my intentions and they replied:-

Efforts like yours will help us raise much needed funds to support thousands of children with additional needs and their families who rely on independent advice and support provided by SNAP Cymru across Wales.  With ever greater pressures on services and provisions for children and families, the need for accurate independent advice for families is more important than ever.  We can certainly do with the funds, with increasing local authorities cutting their contributions to the SNAP Cymru services across Wales.  We work with over 3000 children and families each year on an increasing number of issues and are passionate that all children and families should have independent support and advice when they need it to ensure ALL children and young people meet their potential.

I dedicate this run to an amazing individual called Amy and her very understanding big sister, Cerys xxxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxAfter 9 weeks of hard training the unthinkable happened; my Mum passed away very suddenly. She was the centre of our family and leaves behind 6 beautiful granddaughters who idolised and loved her dearly. My training stopped and the marathon couldn't  have been further from my mind.  I am now finding strength thanks to my Mum and have decided to give it my best shot.  My Mum loved and cherished Amy and I am so sad she will not continue to see her develop. I stay true to my original sentiment and dedicate the run to Amy but will also be doing it in loving memory of my wonderful Mum.  xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

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