Bright Sparks is a charity based in Bonnyrigg, Midlothian who’s primary purpose is to provide a fun, safe, educational and inclusive play space for children with additional support needs.

Our son Max was diagnosed with global developmental delay and Autism by the age of 3. Many of you will have first hand experience of what a journey like this entails. There are great highs, low lows and at times feelings of deep isolation.

Bright Sparks provided me and my wife Stephanie a haven to visit with our son Max where we could talk to many other parents going through similar journeys. Our son Max loves the sensory room and all of the other amazing facilities that they have to offer. It’s absolutely fantastic seeing all of the children happy and fulfilled and the parents supporting each other. The staff at bright sparks have lots of knowledge and experience of additional support needs and really show a great level of care, compassion and consideration to all.

That’s why this year I have decided I will be running the full Edinburgh Marathon to raise money for their charity. This will require me to run a distance of 26.2 miles. I will never be able to repay Bright Sparks for the support that they have provided over the last year however I hope to give back in some way. I always told myself if I ran a full marathon it would have to be for something meaningful, something deep in my heart. I cannot think of anyone more deserving!

Please donate anything you can for a great cause to continue to support parents and children across Midlothian.

If you would like to learn more you can visit them using this link: https://brightsparkspg.org/

Thank you

Neil