Hello!? I have gone mad and I'm doing a TRIATHLON ON NEW YEAR'S DAY. That's right... Training every day for months, no drinking allowed and an ABUNDANCE of lycra. 'Why?!' you say? For a cause I really believe in. And any help that you can offer would be hugely appreciated..x

Growing up with my elder sister, Rhoda, I have never been in any doubt that autism can be challenging. Yet, for no one moreso than the autistic person themselves. Rhoda and I were incredibly lucky to grow up with parents who were patient and tried tirelessly to make sense of Rhoda's world. However, our family may not have survived had it not been for the external support we also received. Autism Initiatives have helped us house Rhoda, create memories for her and ultimately improve her life in many ways.

Autism is often described as a mental condition that inhibits a person's ability to communicate, engage with abstract concepts, or form relationships with others. However, this is pretty general, and doesn't account for the very specific ways that autism can occur. Assistance really needs to be tailored to individuals to prove effective.

Autism Initiatives is an exciting charity for several key reasons. Not only are they parent-led, but they are unique in their view that individuals on the autistic spectrum need to be treated as just that: individuals. They work hard to get to know those that they are aiding, and the ways in which their autism affects their life. This enables them to provide assistance that not only meets the needs of the people with autism, but also their families and carers.

This relief support is typically delivered through education, residential housing, supported living and outreach services - such as community development, courses and activities; and it can change lives.

So while we might all be feeling a little worse for wear come January 1st (though my own exhaustion will not be alcohol induced on this particular NY..!), wouldn't it be great if we can all feel quietly smug that we've contributed to making 2016 that bit brighter for others xxx