It’s hard to look past the charity that we are going to be undertaking this challenge for to understand why I am doing it!. 

I am not massively into challenges!. The last one I probably did was the Race Against Time 10km run in 1986 and putting myself under extreme duress is not something I’d normally do for fun!. I don't like failing either so putting myself in that position is a bit nerve racking but I am going to do the best I can and I am going to really  push myself. Proper training for me starts this week and I will try to update the page with a few pictures as I go along. Please read on about SpecialEffect and the difference they make to the lives of the people they can help. Your support is vital so please donate, thanks!.

SpecialEffect enable people with severe physical disabilities to use technology for communication and leisure - playing video games when they otherwise wouldn't be able to - using whichever part(s)of their body that work best - chin, foot, finger, toe, eyes, knee or head control; we’ll find a way. It’s so important that everyone can join in with family & friends, to be included and not left out. All too often disability leaves a person isolated.



SpecialEffect assess a person's needs and adapt technology to harness whatever controlled movement they have, and create bespoke gaming setups to enable them to play to the best of their abilities. Being included hugely benefits mental wellbeing and quality of life – bringing much needed independence, fun and escapism. Their support is completely free of charge and is for life, particularly important for when things change and need to be adapted (such as a progressive condition like muscular dystrophy or spinal muscular atrophy where muscles/abilities weaken over time. Or when a new game or console comes out!).



They specialise in Eye Control Technology. Imagine: You wake up after an accident. You are paralysed and can’t move anything except your eyes. And you can’t speak. Through eye-movement alone, they help people operate a computer for vital communication and to regain a little independence - giving them a voice when they don’t have one of their own. Because they don’t charge a penny for their services, they rely on & are indebted to wonderful supporters and fundraising events. So I want to try to do my bit, & with your help we might be able to make a difference.



Tom, a young man they supported, wrote simply: ‘Thank you for giving me my life back.’



Some videos showing their work in action:



Bex’s parents – incredibly moving - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA-Tkp6I0-Q



Stewart – eye gaze, showing our support through lockdown - https://youtu.be/u8cEctKKFi4



1 min SpecialEffect Overview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZgV1GPlpE4



Aaron – 13 year old, explains it so well - https://www.dropbox.com/s/lfeiipwg4zrkmku/OSD%20version%20Aaron%20case%20study%20hires.mp4?dl=1



Compilation: https://www.dropbox.com/s/72yhj1qouauqvwz/The%20SpecialEffect%20Difference.mp4?dl=0



Steve, wonderful man: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU2GFN2vNV0



Discover more at http://www.specialeffect.org.uk