In appreciation of what Ability do for people with special needs and learning difficulties, they're amazing people, doing amazing things and I am so proud of them all.

Last year aged 45 I bought my first ever running shoes and off I went, it was painful to start with, but I have gradually built into a strong(ish) runner. I wanted a challenge and wanted to show my appreciation to Ability, who do such great work.

Also last year, Ability supported my son Thomas (who has autism) in transition to independent living at the age of 18. He now lives in his own fantastic home, with two other great young dudes called Adam and Danny. They each have their own challenges in life and are afforded their independence and freedom thanks to the dedicated staff at Ability, who provide 24 hour 1-to-1 care for all three young men in a house that Ability invested heavily into buying & setting up.

I m very proud of Thomas and what he has achieved in the his first year in his own home, but I'm also proud of the team of carers who make his independent lifestyle a possibility (well done all of you, you're special people and should be proud yourselves).

I manage my own little challenge too, suffering Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and a damaged spine. This makes training for and completing this half marathon extra challenging, but if Thomas and his friends can manage their challenges, then so can I.

Please offer your support to Ability by sponsoring my first half marathon. They will put the extra funds to very good use. I know they have ambitions to open more independent living facilities like the one Thomas calls home, but this takes great investment to achieve. Let's all help take them one step closer to that goal. More people with autism, special needs, learning difficulties etc... deserve the opportunity that has been afforded to my son Thomas.

Go on, give a little, make me proud of you too (please).