Stacey and I both proudly volunteer for Portsmouth DSA and the Great South Run is one of our favourite events to get involved with, setting up a cheer station, with signs, flags, balloons etc. But this year I've decided to get involved and run the whole 10 miles with a group of other Dad's.

We have an 8 year old daughter called Robin, shorty after she was born, Doctors explained to us that Robin showed some of the traits of Down Syndrome, a few days later a diagnosis was confirmed and after a week in NICU we were finally able to bring her home.

To say it has been hard would be an understatement, but with the support of Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association and the families involved it has definitely made it a lot easier. We have coffee mornings, parents nights, parties, social/communication groups and loads more. Even more importantly we are supported by a school outreach service where a specialist organisation attends Robin's school each term to support Robin and staff with her personal development. Without which she would struggle with a mainstream setting.

Ben

Portsmouth DSA is an award-winning charity, committed to improving the lives of people with Down syndrome by providing some of the UK’s best specialist services, training and support to individuals, families and professionals, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed. We work hard to raise awareness, champion inclusion, & celebrate diversity because when people with DS are given opportunities to participate & be fully included, the whole community benefits. Portsmouth DSA is proud to have royal approval in recognition of our work. More information can be found here.