Matt Devonshire

Matt & Rosie's 10k Challenge

Fundraising for Dyspraxia Foundation
£204
raised of £150 target
Donations cannot currently be made to this page
We aim to improve awareness & understanding to support all those affected by dyspraxia

Story

Matt is running 3x 10km events; London 10k (30th May), Great Newham Run (17th July) and Rosie is joining at the British 10k (10th July) to take part in her own 10k challenge.

Dyspraxia is estimated to affect between 1 in 10 to 1 in 20 people, but is often misunderstood, and no two people are the same, each of us are very unique in our strengths and weaknesses.

Dyspraxia is simply so much more than someone being a bit clumsy. It is thought to be caused by a disruption in the way messages from the brain are transmitted to the body. This affects my ability to perform movements in a coordinated way, balance, motor skills, social skills and sensory sensitivity.

Although day-to-day life with dyspraxia can be chaotic and frustrating, it also has meant I’m a very determined and resilient person. I am creative and able to see the bigger picture, and the experiences I’ve had have made me more understanding and empathetic of others.

I was diagnosed with dyspraxia at the age of four and in those 25 years I have come across a lot of misunderstandings about dyspraxia! 9 times out of 10 when I tell someone I have dyspraxia they look at me with a blank look on their face. Dyspraxia is a hidden difficulty which means to the outside world you can’t tell someone has it. These misunderstandings can make people feel socially isolated experience bullying and ignorance and difficulties with self esteem, confidence and mental health.

The Dyspraxia Foundation were my parents first port of call when I was diagnosed and thanks to their help they didn't feel alone. My family are very grateful for everything they have done and me and Matt want to give something back and help others who have been in a similar position to us.

Walking 10k will be quite a challenge for me with my co-ordination difficulties, I also tire easily and struggle with anxiety especially in new and unpredictable environments. But if it all helps one person and make a difference all will be worthwhile.

For more dyspraxia awareness please visit my blog: http://thinkoutsideofthecardboardbox.blogspot.co.uk/- Rosie

The Dyspraxia Foundation helps people affected by dyspraxia feel less alone - getting to know others with dyspraxia on their Facebook group for people aged 13-25 with dyspraxia, looking through the factsheets they've created for tips to make things that little bit easier and knowing that their helpline is there to answer any dyspraxia related queries. The Dyspraxia Foundation are the only charity in the UK who are dedicated to raising awareness of dyspraxia.

They do a huge amount in helping to raise awareness of dyspraxia - distributing leaflets and books about dyspraxia to local schools. They hold conferences for parents, teachers or adults with dyspraxia - full of information and the opportunity to get to know others with dyspraxia. They have a vital helpline service, supporting adults and parents of children with dyspraxia. They run local support groups, making sure no one with dyspraxia feels like they're alone. Despite the fact that there still isn't enough awareness, it really has come a long way so far with the help of the Dyspraxia Foundation and they're constantly doing what they can to raise awareness even further through talks and through their social media accounts.

The Dyspraxia Foundation do not receive any government funding, and consist of a large number of volunteers with just a few members of paid staff. They cannot continue their work without vital funds.

 

TEXT MDDF92 £5 70070 to donate £5

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About the charity

The Dyspraxia Foundation supports those with dyspraxia, their families and professionals. We raise awareness, understanding and are funded by voluntary donations and membership subscriptions. We publish literature, organise conferences and support through local groups, social networks and a helpline

Donation summary

Total raised
£204.00
+ £33.00 Gift Aid
Online donations
£204.00
Offline donations
£0.00

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