On Sunday 10th May, alongside my older brother Dan, I will be running my first ever half marathon in Leeds. I’m proud to be doing it in support of Purple Patch Arts, a charity that has been instrumental in the development and happiness of my younger sister, Alex.

My goal is to raise £1,000 to help Purple Patch continue providing life-changing opportunities for people like Alex.

Alex turns 30 this year, but her mental age is around 18 months. She is autistic and epileptic, the epilepsy came into our lives when we were teenagers. Alex requires round-the-clock care; she cannot wash, clean, or dress herself, and honestly, I’ve never known life any different.

Growing up with a disabled sister has definitely brought its challenges. I’d be lying if I said I’ve never wished things were different sometimes. Ultimately, these are the cards we’ve been dealt and Alex brings something truly special to our lives. Although Alex isn't able to converse, she often repeats phrases she’s picked up from TV and films, sometimes at moments that feel perfectly timed and can light up a whole room. Somehow she still finds a way to join in from her own world, and over the years we’ve learned how to understand hers too. Her happiness is simple, genuine and completely infectious.

Alex has attended Purple Patch since she turned 18, and the facilities, care, and genuine fun she experiences there, along with the friendships she’s made, have been invaluable to our family. She spends two days a week enjoying music and dance classes, cooking, drawing, painting and taking part in all sorts of activities and experiences. Opportunities like these bring a sense of joy, familiarity and independence to her life that simply wouldn’t be possible within just our close-knit family. Purple Patch believes learning should be for everyone, and they create safe, creative spaces where adults with learning disabilities can explore, grow and simply be themselves.

I’m especially excited for race day because the route will take us past our little family restaurant in the heart of Adel. Alex will be there cheering us on, and seeing her beaming face (and her slightly confused excitement as she watches me and Dan run past) will be one of the proudest moments of my life.

If you’re able to donate, even £5 would make a difference. Your support helps Purple Patch continue the incredible work they do, supporting over 200 learning-disabled people each year and giving people like Alex a place to belong, to have fun and to experience things that many of us (including myself) take for granted.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story, it really does mean a lot to me, my family and to Alex.