Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I have decided on this challenge for two reasons; one because my friend needs a swimming buddy to complete her 10k Cancer Research fundraiser, but more importantly, to showcase a fantastic SEND provision that supports us as a family - one that we would be lost without.

As most of you will know, our daughter Evie was diagnosed with Epilepsy at thirteen months old following prolonged seizures and then being placed into a coma. Since then, she has been significantly delayed in all areas of development, particularly in her speech and language. She has also been diagnosed with ADHD, is demand avoidant, displays Autistic behaviours and is extremely sensory-seeking.

Over the years, her frustrations and difficulties with not being able to communicate her needs effectively enough have increased and, in turn, her behaviour and emotional regulation have become increasingly challenging to manage and support.

Our world has shrunk as the places we can take Evie to have significantly reduced as not everybody understands or tolerates children with additional needs, or they are not adequately set up to cater for them. This is where Yorda has been a lifeline for us. With little to no respite for us as a family, Yorda offers us a safe place where Evie can be herself and nurture her unique interests without us having to justify or apologise for her behaviours. The staff are amazing. They are truly inclusive and understanding of her needs and triggers and when they know that Evie is due to attend, they set up personalised play areas that cater for her specific play. For us as parents, we are understood and listened to and we never feel judged. We are supported emotionally and practically and feel like part of the Yorda family.

Yorda has only recently gained charity status and relies solely on sponsorships and donations. The CEO and founder, Laura, was awarded an MBE this year for her services to disabled children and their families. Too few special places like this exist but they are literally life-changing for our children and often the only short respite for us as carers. We would be lost without it. Any donation you can give to help children like Evie will make a huge difference to the quality of their life and their family dynamic. Thank you so much from all of us xxx

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.