As part of I AM’s mission to celebrate autism with the broader world, we’re happy to present the latest in a series of our ’10 questions with…’ series, featuring I AM fundraiser Nathan Copestake.
1. What inspired you to take part in the Manchester Half Marathon to support I-AM, and why is this cause personally meaningful to you?
My sister, Ros, was diagnosed as autistic in 2020 at 14 years old. What became clear to us as a family was how challenging it was to find the right support for young people and their families.
2. How did you first learn about I AM, and what stood out to you about their work with autistic individuals?
I AM Autism runs a youth club in Salford, funded by the Salford City Council. After my sister’s autism diagnosis, CAMHS recommended the group to help boost her self-esteem and confidence. Ros began attending the youth group in Trafford, enjoying school holiday trips and spending time with people who understood her and allowed her to be herself.
As a young adult, Ros continues to participate in events, recently visiting Chatsworth House. I AM Autism is one of the few services available for autistic young people, and the value of being supported by staff and volunteers who truly understand autism and the experiences of autistic individuals in Greater Manchester cannot be overstated.
3. How did you prepare for the half marathon? Can you share any memorable moments from the event day, whether during the race or while meeting others?
I aimed to run at least once a week, gradually increasing the distance each time. Before training, the longest distance I had run was 10k, so it was a challenge. I also cycle to work and play for a football team, which helped with my overall fitness.
4. Running a half marathon is a big commitment. How did you feel crossing the finish line, knowing you were running for such an important cause?
Crossing the line was the biggest relief I’ve ever felt in sports. The last few kilometres were difficult, but I managed to run the whole thing. It was worth the pain for the celebration at the end, and knowing it was for a worthy cause made it even more meaningful.
5. Can you tell us more about your fundraising journey and how you managed to engage others in your cause? What has the response been like from friends, family, and the wider community to your fundraising efforts?
When I signed up for the half marathon, I knew I wanted to fundraise alongside it. I wanted to support a charity that felt close to home and had helped people around me, and there was no better choice than I AM.
It cannot be underestimated the importance of being supported by staff and volunteers who understand autism and the experiences of autistic young people.
6. Balancing training, fundraising, and daily life can be tough – how did you manage it all?
Thankfully the fundraising was through justgiving.com which takes away a lot of the usual hassle. Once I set up the page and shared it was up and running. Balancing training with daily life is difficult; the most important thing is finding a routine.
7. What do you hope your fundraising efforts will achieve for I AM and the people they support?
I AM Autism has supported my sister gain independence, experience new activities and given her a space to fully be herself. I hope my fund raising will allow more young people to benefit from the amazing provision. There is little support for autistic adults and young people, so any support we can offer is important.
8. Did you have the chance to connect with any beneficiaries or representatives of I AM during your fundraising journey? If so, how did that impact you?
Not yet. I was introduced to I AM through my sister, but I haven’t met any representatives yet. I would be delighted to in the future.
There’s no such thing as a smooth mountain, remember why you started.
9. Now that you’ve completed the race and raised funds, what’s next for you in terms of supporting charitable causes?
I’m participating in the Bolton Wanderers Community 10k in April 2025, and I would like to organise a fundraiser for it again. I would be delighted to volunteer any work I can offer to charitable causes.
10. What advice would you give to someone considering taking on a similar challenge for charity?
If you are considering the challenge, sign up! The hardest part is getting started, but once the ball is rolling, it’s great fun. Start planning a training routine and begin. If you have any friends who would also be up for the challenge, encourage them to join, too. There will be challenging times during training, but it’s important not to get disheartened. There’s no such thing as a smooth mountain – remember why you started. The event is a fantastic day, and all the pain and effort during preparation will be more than worth it once you complete it.
If you or someone you know is interested in taking part in I AM Profiles, please drop us an email at enquiries@i-am-autism.org.uk
