Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. After my successful completion of the Great North Run, I am now preparing for the second part of my double challenge to raise much-needed funds for Daisy Chain, which is to summit Kilimanjaro, Africa's Highest Mountain at 5895m, in October 2013.

First of all, thank you so much to all of those who so kindly sponsored me for the Great North Run 2012. It was a fantastic experience! Obviously, when crossing the finish line, the feeling was one of triumph and elation, but each and every moment of the run from start to finish was magic! As well as the personal sense of achievement of completing the run, there was also the feeling of having made positive difference to the lives of many families affected by autism that Daisy Chain support, which made it all the more special.

Being diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, taking part in a physical challenge offered a great way of coping with some of the challenges that the condition presents, including anxiety, by facing up to them. hopefully, the confidence I have gained from the Great North Run will take me to the roof of Africa!

Previously, I have trekked to Everest Base Camp to to raise funds for the National Autistic Society back in 2009 in memory of Genevieve Edmonds, who tragically died the previous year (2008).The experience of Everest changed my life very much, as I saw myself in relation to my interconnections in a different light. The trek itself was almost a symbol of one's life narrative in relation to Asperger's Syndrome, including its ups and downs of coping with constantly-changing conditions, as well as being a great opportunity for social skills development.

After ten years (and counting) of giving talks seminars and workshops on Asperger's Syndrome, to see what they have contributed, including to the work that Daisy Chain does, to has been rewarding, as well as to make a difference by doing something that I enjoy in taking on challenges. Daisy Chain is a dedicated charity that makes a huge difference to the lives of many that is reliant on generosity and the outstanding dedication of their volunteers, and receives no goverment funding. Donations to this and similar challenges make a huge difference.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.