Dear Friends and Supporters,

I'm delighted to be running the Irish Life Dublin Marathon 2023 to raise much-needed funds for Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI), an incredible organisation that provides highly trained assistance dogs that make a profound impact on the lives of autistic children and their families.

Having worked closely with autistic and other neurodivergent children for most of my career, I've had the privilege of witnessing the amazing impact of assistance dogs on helping these children to self-regulate and navigate the world around them. These exceptional four-legged companions provide a sense of stability, comfort, and security for the children, enabling them to navigate sensory challenges, regulate their emotions, and engage more effectively with others. 

But the reality is that there are still so many children in need, waiting for their own assistance dog. By donating to AADI, you will be directly contributing to the training and placement of these life-changing companions. Your generosity will help bring joy, comfort, and independence to these children, enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential.

As I embark on this marathon journey, I'm reminded of how running has positively changed my own life. It has been a source of solace, strength, and self-discovery. Through the power of running, I've learned to overcome my own neurodivergent challenges, push my limits, and find a sense of accomplishment that I never thought possible. Now, it's time for me to give something back. Not only am I setting an ambitious fundraising target, but I'm also setting an equally ambitious running target. I am committed to pushing myself to new heights in this marathon. By challenging myself physically and mentally, I hope to mirror the determination and resilience shown by these remarkable children and their families every day. 

Let's come together and rally behind AADI to ensure that more children with autism can experience the transformative power of a loyal and dedicated assistance dog. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference.

Thank you so much for your generosity and support.

Lucy