During the summer of 2011, my 2 year old cousin Joseph was diagnosed with autism. 

People with autism have a unique and different way of processing information and seeing the world, and find it hard to socialise, make important descisions or think and plan ahead. 

Joseph started nursery soon after his diagnosis. He had a one to one session three times a week with one of the nursery's staff, and would spend all day reading books in the corner. Many of the children didn't understand Joseph's condition, and were unable to work out why Joseph couldn't join in with crafts or could only eat his tomatoes if they were face down on the plate.

He is making leaps and bounds every day. He loves to do jigsaws and gives lots of kisses and high fives. He is very loveable and loves Thomas the Tank Engine. The nursery staff have been amazing, helping Joseph every day, but it is really down to the love, support and understanding that his parents John and Karen give him; everyone can see he is progressing everyday. 

For a family living with autism life can be hard and very demanding, I have experienced it myself, and no amount of empathy can come close to feeling what living with autism is like. The North East Autism Society help to provide a break for these families, with a drop in community services, and education for children, and employment opportunities for adults. It really is a great cause to support, and one that is very close to my heart.

The Pennine Way is a 268 mile, long distance walk across England, and myself, my Dad and my Mam will be walking an average of 13.5 miles a day- no easy task- and we will be carrying all our gear on our backs. I will be blogging every night so you will be able to read about the days events by clicking on this link:

 

 

Whether you know me, or don't, or maybe just want to support a great cause, please dig deep and change the lives of people living with autism today.