A bunch of the Rare Ltd team, including myself (yes ok I came up with the idea), are going to be taking part in a fundraiser for SpecialEffect in the month of December or Decemburpees as it is now known. Throughout the whole month each of us will be doing 100 Burpees every day so that’s 3100 burpees in total.

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

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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.