My name is Lynne Williamson and I have the best job in the world as the Chilren and Families Project Worker for Waverley Care, Scotland's leading charity supporting people living with and affected by HIV and Hepatitis C.   I am so passionate about the work we do and belive so much in the project that I have made the commitment to complete the London to Paris Cycle in June 2011 to raise much need funds for the children, young people and their families.  What the heck it's only 310 miles over four days which includes two days of undulating terrain ( I had to look that up and it means bloomin big hills and yes I'm a wee bit nervous).  Not to worry I have already bought several pairs of padded pants (see attached picture)!!!!!! 

On a day to day basis I am both inspired and humbled by the children, young people and families we support. I have also never laughed so much in my life:). Living with and being affected by HIV and Hepatitis C can come with many challenges.  Both are still heavily stigmatised conditions and life can be full of uncertanties.  Many of the young people the project works with have lost one or both parents to a HIV or Hepatitis C related illness. Others are young carers and live with the worry that their mum or dad might get ill and what will happen to the family if this happens.  Some of the young people are living with HIV and are absolutley amazing, as one young person said to me recently, 'I've got to get on with life - a BMW doesn't buy itself'. 

What the children, young people and families say about the Children and Families Project:

'When my only child was first diagnosed with HIV when he was three years old - I thought he only had a few years to live.  The Children and Families Project helped me realise that that was not the case.  Paul turned 10 this year and now I think about the day he goes to university - the future is very bright'.  Robert

'I don't know what I would have done without the Children and Families Project.  I can come here and not feel judged'.  Jackie who lost both her parents to HIV and has used the project for over 10 years.

The cost of the trip is £600 and I am paying for this myself.  Therefore all donations made will go directly to the Children and Families Project.

Please give what you can - any donations are greatly appreciated:)

Thank you

 

 One down - two more to go:).  In 23 degrees I completed the Berlin Half Marathon in 2 hours 22 minutes and 14 seconds.  What a challenge and what an amazing feeling:))))xxx