Thanks for taking the time to visit my fundraising page for SpecialEffect.

Following my first 10km run last year, I'm back - and I'm doubling down with a half-marathon! This is more than double the longest distance I've ever run. I'm nervous. I'm excited. And I'd like to use this challenge to bring attention to a great cause.

A little about SpecialEffect:

SpecialEffect enable severely disabled people to use technology in any way possible – using whichever part(s) of their body that work best - by adapting tech to their individual needs. It’s so important they can join in with family/friends, to be included and not left out. This can hugely benefit mental wellbeing, self-esteem and quality of life – and much needed FUN!

We specialise in Eye Control Technology. Imagine: You wake up after an accident. You can’t move anything except your eyes. And you can’t speak. Through eye-movement alone, we help people operate a computer so they can communicate and regain a little independence - giving them a voice when they don’t have one of their own.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZMKpVXPdiY

Sam's road accident left him with a broken spine and unable to move. As soon as we heard, we visited him in hospital to set up an eye-controlled computer that allowed him to a degree of normality and control - watching TV, keeping in touch with friends online, and playing games.

"It helped me stay positive and in control, when I couldn't do anything else," he said.