Introduction

Helen Boden (CEO) and Debra Bradley (Trustee) are really going the extra mile for I AM Celebrating Autism in Greater Manchester on the 3rd of October, 2021. They are both undertaking the Virtual London Marathon to raise funds to support the work that we do. Please show Helen your support by donating money via the Virgin Money Giving button below.

Why I’m doing the Virtual London Marathon

I started to work for I AM a year ago, virtually on the same date as the event. Over the course of the last year, I have been humbled by the stories of the personal challenges that our members and the families of our members overcome on a daily basis. It, therefore, seemed appropriate for me to also push my personal boundaries and take on a challenge.

I have previously considered undertaking a marathon event, but then quickly cast the idea aside on the basis that it was too difficult, would take too much effort and generally I felt it was beyond my middle-aged capabilities. Not to mention it would be total madness!

And then I started to work for I AM. My perspective of what an individual can achieve if they are brave, committed, fearless and have support, has changed. The reality of the barriers that people with autistic spectrum conditions have to overcome every day is staggering. Therefore, for me to complete 26.2 miles seems like a drop in the ocean in comparison.

I hope I complete the distance, but regardless of whether or not I do, the fact is I will have taken on a challenge that will doubtless be hard, exhausting and profoundly uncomfortable on just about every level. I only have to experience this for a day for people with ASC this is life.

“Strength and courage aren’t always measured in medals and victories. They are measured in the struggles they overcome. The strongest people aren’t always the people who win, but the people who don’t give up when they lose.” (Ashley Hodgeson)

Autistic Spectrum Conditions impact the lives of so many and whilst here at I AM we can support many people with additional funds we could do so much more. Please support Helen with her Virtual London Marathon challenge by donating below.

 

Training

Helen has been busy training for her attempt at the London Marathon, here are a few pictures that she’s taken along the way.

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