Hi!

As you probably know Mara, my daughter, has Down's syndrome.

She is a superstar, full of life and laughter. She is also a fighter, which is good because our society is not set up to allow her and her peers to thrive.

For Mara's first 6 years, when support is critical, we received therapy from the NHS but only a fraction of what was needed was available to us. Typically after 6 - 12 sessions of therapy we were discharged; a similar story with occupational therapy and speech & language. Even the professionals readily admit this is nowhere near enough.

Charities shouldn't have to plug that gap, but, luckily, they do. And we are very fortunate to have a brilliant one close by.

Down's South London (DSL) puts on weekly multi-disciplinary therapy sessions for Mara and dozens of other children aged 0-6. These sessions, led by two amazing therapists — hi Beth and Cait! — provide structure, guidance and an invaluable sense of community to so many families.

Remarkably, the sessions are also free to access. DSL is wholly funded by donations and administered by parents.

On the 13th October, a few of us will be running the Royal Parks Half to raise money for the charity. It will be used to pay the therapists, rent the space and buy equipment.

Three years ago my brothers, Robbie and Andrew, ran but now it's my time to get fit and show our appreciation for DSL by putting in the hard yards myself.

My oldest friend Laura is also generously giving up her time and energy to close in on the 13 miles around central London. This is a joint effort and one that so far means we have :

- had to become fit and run practically overnight

- attempted to juggle training and 7 children over the summer holidays (we didn't succeed!)

- already run over100 miles, more than the distance between Laura's House in Broughton and mine in South East London

- swum another 10 miles

- racked up hours of Pilates

- realised after 5 major surgeries running in our 40's looks different to school cross country

- swotted up on heart rates, gels and paces

- not completed half the Nike app recommended runs

- given our best to do this in a six-week timeframe without getting injured!

DSL has been a major part of Mara's life; we would all appreciate any contribution, no matter how small, to this wonderful charity and the vital work they do!

Much Love,

Aelene & Laura x