"I know what I will do...I will sign up for the marathon - it probably won't happen anyway." 

48 hours later......an email confirming my place comes through and here I am....running the LONDON MARATHON 2024! 

I was advised by the charity to set up my page ASAP to give the best chance of raising money especially as I absolutely have to raise £1950 as my commitment to running for them so all pennies are really appreciated .

Since the start of career in education and my nephew (Miles) was diagnosed with Autism , I have a real drive and passion to support children with SEND (Special Educational Needs). Knowing this is something I wanted to pursue I completed SEND enrichment alongside my PGCE during my teacher training year. Fast forward 3 years and I completed my SENCO qualification and became a SENCO- during this time (and still) I made it my mission to ensure the best outcomes for children with SEND & build genuine relationships with those pupils to help them develop and grow.

It is no secret that schools are in significant need of support with SEND children as the need has significantly increased. There are now 390, 109 pupils with an Educational Health Care Plan (EHCP), which has significantly increased by 62% since 2015. Due to the increasing number, the system cannot cope and therefore pupils are being educated in settings that may not meet their needs. Therefore without adequate funding, thousands of children are losing out on a proper education and support they need to learn. Something that absolutely breaks my heart and has driven me to want to run the London Marathon to raise money. 

Autism is a developmental disability that is close to mine & Charlie's family. When my wonderful (brother like) nephew was given a diagnosis of Autism at 6 , as a family we did not know what this meant for him. He had a particularly tricky start to his school career due to lack of understanding around his needs. Thankfully as understanding grew, he began to find his feet a little more in the world but still had many obstacles to overcome to this day. He is the brightest boy I know and can name every single American president in order, answers all my questions about politics and I am beyond proud of everything he has achieved despite his challenges. He may struggle socially, but over the last few years he has found his place at a youth club, watching football (something we never thought he would be interested in) and representing Southend in the Youth Council. These are things that are important to him and give him a sense of belonging. This is so important for children with SEND. 

Another personal story where I know how important a sense of belonging and support is needed is for my friend Leanne's little boy: Louie. Louie is a brave solider having had major heart surgery before he was even months old at GOSH. At the age of 3, he has 17 diagnoses and is currently on the pathway to an Autism Diagnosis. His highest need is his deletion of chromosomes 9 & 2, which is a rare disorder and doctors do not know the true impact of this on him. Currently, Louie & family relay on many SEND services including SENDIAAS and I know this makes a huge difference to their lives. Louie is currently loving Nursery and his making his own progress- those around him (including me) are so proud of how far he has come. 

That is why charities like KIDS is so important because where there is lack of funding to support children in an education setting (despite educators best efforts!!) charities like KIDS provide a wide range of services nationally for disabled children, young people and their families. They give children that sense of belonging they desire. 

KIDS acts with disabled children, young people and their families to change the system and secure the resources to which they are entitled. They create opportunities for them to take part in play, learning, leisure, skills training and social activities.

Above all, they empower disabled children and young people to achieve equal rights and opportunities, creating a more inclusive society for all.

For me, this is going to be a huge challenge both physically and mentally. I do not know how I am going to get through it but it will worth it to know what the money is going to and how these children with SEND live their lives daily- therefore I can get through it.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my page and sponsor me. It genuinely means the word! 

https://www.kids.org.uk/Pages/Category/what-we-do 

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