After watching my partner Rosie run her first half marathon (and smash a sub 2 hour time) I was super inspired to make a change, get fit and get back into running. I thought the Great Manchester 10k Run would be a good one to train towards, and hopefully help raise some money for a good cause along the way. 

I wanted to raise money for Special Effect who I've supported for a number of years now. They help to make video games accessible to disabled players in the UK, creating custom controllers and accessories to make sure everyone can enjoy and experience playing without boundaries. Please take a minute to read the below and check out more of their work at specialeffect.org.uk

"SpecialEffect change lives. Through their knowledge and expertise, people like me can now play with friends on an even playing field. It may be hard for some to imagine, but being included makes a huge and positive difference in our lives.” – Alex, a gamer with spinal muscular atrophy

From their site "We’re transforming the lives of physically disabled people right across the world through the innovative use of technology. At the core of this mission is our work to maximise inclusion, enjoyment and quality of life by helping people control video games to the best of their abilities for as long as they need us. Our team of occupational therapists and gaming specialists in the UK create bespoke control setups for hundreds of individuals each year, while our R&D team use what we learn in the field to develop freely-available resources and solutions to help level the playing field for disabled gamers all over the world.

This mission of inclusion extends beyond gaming, whether that’s by using eye-gaze technology to bring communication, independence and hope for people in intensive care units with a severe injury or illness, or by using telepresent robots to reconnect medically isolated children with their education and friends. Whatever we do, we’re committed to making life better for the people that need us, for as long as possible.

Nobody likes being left out, so we’re levelling the video game playing field for people with disabilities. By using solutions ranging from modified controllers to eye-tracking sensors, we’re finding ways for people to play to the very best of their abilities. It’s life-transforming work that’s bringing families and friends together and having a profoundly positive impact on quality of life."

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. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.