This is my beautiful son Billy, or as he tells everyone "Billy Albert Jack Pateman".  Billy loves Disney films, Shaun the Sheep, going to school, swimming and cuddles with his mum.  Billy is a happy, content and charming little boy who can melt your heart with his wonderful smile and gorgeous green eyes.    Billy is also Autistic!!  

He was diagnosed aged 3 and will always face huge challenges in his life due to his condition.  Autism affects individuals in the form of difficulties with speech and language (some being totally non-verbal), the inability to integrate adequately within social situations and the need to partake in repetitive  or rigid type behaviours.  This affects the ability to function within all aspects of life and can be very stressful and anxiety provoking for the sufferer and carer alike.  Unfortunately, there is no cure for Autism and it is a poorly understood condition by the medical profession.  Because of this research is very underfunded.  In the early 1980's Autism was diagnosed in every 1 in 10,000 children, that figure has risen to approx 1 child in every 68 being affected.  It is imperative to endeavour to identify the causes, hopefully how preventative measures can be taken and provide therapeutic interventions that can assist any child affected by this very complex condition. 

I would be very grateful if you would consider sponsoring my effort to raise money for the Autism Trust by taking part in my first Triathlon. Any amount would be greatly appreciated for this very worthy cause to help children like my Billy and other families who live with Autism.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your donation. 

Michelle xxxxxxxxxx