Thanks for taking time to visit my JustGiving page.

When Charlie was first diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome our world felt like it had fallen on us. The feelings of sadness, frustration and fear were a large part of our life in those early days and what the future might hold for our beautiful little boy. We shouldn’t have worried as Charlie continues to strive in his development and each milestone whether it’s a new sign, word, sound, play activity or skill brings so much to our lives to see his cheeky face light up and makes us laugh when he spontaneously gives himself a round of applause for his achievements.

The charitable organisations dedicated to people with Down’s Sydrome and their relatives have been a great support to us as we find our way in the world of ‘Down Syndrome’ and meeting other families through these charities has been invaluable to us.

Sparkles is one such charity. Based in High Wycombe Sparkles provides speech and language therapy for Charlie and other children with Down’s Syndrome. Supported by their parents, children work in small groups led by a Speech and Language Therapist, and are taught communication skills, strategies and activities for continued learning at home.

On September 21 Charlie, Ava, Glen and Jo will be helping to raise money for Sparkles by participating in The Big Step Forward, an estimated 2-mile sponsored walk around the Rye in High Wycombe. Charlie has just started to walk independently, and his 4 steps might not take him the full distance, but with the support of his family and friends we will ensure he gets all the way round!!

Any support you can give Charlie and Sparkles will be very much appreciated.

Thank you

The Sumners