I am now going to undertake the hardest challenge in my life so far. I or should I say we (Rian my severely disabled son and I) have entered Manchester Marathon on the 14th of April. I will be pushing Rian in a a specially made wheelchair in the marathon for 26.2m or 42.1 km.

I am running for SpecialEffect charity please share this, please donate and please read on.

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:

Tiago - This is one of our new videos: https://youtu.be/IUNclXvisEM

SpecialEffect in 60 Seconds (1:00) http://bit.ly/2XrJmec

Seren - https://www.specialeffect.org.uk/news/seren-and-david-a-bubblebusters-story

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

Compilation: https://www.dropbox.com/s/72yhj1qouauqvwz/The%20SpecialEffect%20Difference.mp4?dl=0

Steve, wonderful man: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU2GFN2vNV0

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpecialEffect

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpecialEffectCharity/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/specialeffectteam/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GameOnForEVERYONE/

Website: http://www.specialeffect.org.uk/