On September the 30th it will be 10 years since Charlie’s car accident. The anniversary of the accident is always difficult for us to look back on but in true Charlie Graver style he plans to turn it into something positive by taking on a fundraising running challenge to raise awareness and vital funds for Changing Faces, a charity that have supported us over the years. Unfortunately, we live in a cruel world and a society that strives for physical perfection. Nobody should be made to feel like they don’t belong, and Changing Faces are working to prevent discrimination based on physical appearance. Everyone has the right to be treated fairly, equally and with respect regardless of how they look.

So, back to the challenge, Charlie is going to run 10 miles to acknowledge 10 years since the accident. Starting off at Durham Cathedral and heading down to the river wear, then heading back out of Durham onto the A167, stopping off at Chester-Le-Street Town FC, our local football club that Charlie adores, then back towards our home, stopping off at Charlie’s School, The Hermitage Academy who have been nothing but supportive since Charlie started in the Spring term of 2024 before finishing off at our home. I have recced the route and it has some spicy hills amongst it so it is not going to be easy, but Charlie is a determined young man and will keep pushing forward to get to that 10-mile finish line.

Changing Faces is the UK's leading charity for everyone who has a mark, scar or condition that makes them look different.

Being different in a society where there is such pressure to look a certain way is tough. For over

25 years we have been providing advice and support, challenging discrimination, and campaigning for a

world that respects difference.

We want a future where everyone with a visible difference on their face or body has the confidence, support and opportunity to lead the lives they want.