Happy New Year 2020 and thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page!  This January I am taking part in "Dry January" (giving up alcohol for the month.... which IS a challenge for me :-) !!) to raise money for the ADHD Foundation, a charity focused on improving awareness of and support for those with ADHD.  

ADHD is when a kid is hyperactive, right?  Well, not really.... Hyperactivity can be one of the symptoms, but ADHD is a complex, lifelong neurological condition which affects many aspects of the way people think & behave.  And up to 2/3rds of people with ADHD have co-existing conditions such as autistic spectrum and anxiety disorders.

One of my children has this condition, and as a family we are on a daily journey to learn, understand and find a way through.  It's not easy, but the ADHD Foundation is a valuable source of advice and resources (and moral support too).

This type of neurodiversity can bring with it great energy, creativity, entrepreneurial flair and sporting talent (as exemplified by people like Richard Branson, Justin Timberlake and Simone Biles).  But whilst positive role models are helpful, the vast majority of people with this condition face significant challenges in crucial aspects of their life like school or work, relationships, everyday organization & decision making and with their mental health.

For a condition affecting 5 - 11% of the total population (figures quoted in research vary significantly), it is still very poorly understood by many (including professionals like doctors and teachers) and the route to obtaining a diagnosis, treatment & effective support is too long and too difficult.  

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you for reading my story!!