Thank you for all the donations so far!! Download the "Royal Parks Half 2023" app and track us on the day! We'll be starting at around 9:15am this Sunday!

Rebecca Walker: 11362
Gareth Stephenson: 7883

At the start of the new year I decided to move away from my 2022 resolution to eat more pizza and commit to something more meaningful that could have a positive impact on those around me. 

In looking for volunteer opportunities, I discovered Sense, a national Charity that supports people who are deafblind and those with complex disabilities, to be understood, connected and valued. They are there for every person who faces communication barriers in a world that relies on being able to see and hear well to be connected. Sense offer services for disabled children, young people, adults and their families. Supporting with education, access to work, and providing ways to build meaningful connections.

I signed up to the Sense buddying programme, an initiative that aims to tackle loneliness in disabled young people. I was matched to my buddy, an enthusiastic and super sweet young person with Down Syndrome and learning difficulties. We will meet weekly, taking part in a variety of activities, building a friendship and learning from one another.

On the 8th October 2023 I will run 21km (13.1 miles) to fundraise and raise awareness of Sense, a charity that I have come to admire so much.

For years I've been vocal about my hate for running but here we are! Determined to rise to the challenge of prepping for and completing my first Half Marathon! Luckily, I've somehow managed to convince my partner, Gareth, to sign up too! So wish us luck and look out for plenty of red faced selfies as I train!

Sense - Together we can unlock barriers to communication, so no one is isolated, left out or unable to fulfil their potential.