Earlier this year I made the decision to run my first marathon, and I was lucky enough to secure a place through my work in the Amsterdam Marathon (taking place on Sunday 20th October).
I have spent the past several months running in all weather conditions (from running on ice to running in hot, humid conditions), getting up at 5am to fit in long runs, escape the hot weather, just so I can be back to take the kids to football and resume my role as Mama. I have squeezed in runs before and/or after a busy working day...and all in all over the past few months of training I have (so far) run a total of 98 hours in preparation.
As the longer runs have gotten longer and harder, I began to think that I would love to run not only for myself but to run to try and raise money for the incredible & unique Sea Change Cafe, a non-profit organisation giving back to the community.
Unemployment. Isolation. Lack of opportunity. It is a tide that millions of UK adults diagnosed with autism and/or learning disabilities have been hit by for too long.
At Sea Change, they have a determination to turn that tide. Through their unique and tailored employment training programme, they are making waves towards sustainable employment and improved wellbeing for individuals who deserve every opportunity to thrive.
Sea Change teaches transferable skills such as effective communication, teamwork, health & safety in the workplace, and time management. They also equip them with accredited qualifications, including Food Hygiene Certificates.
I have been lucky enough to see some of of the adult learners and volunteers in Sea Change grow, blossom and gain permanent employment, and I can see what a special place this is to the community.
I would love it if you could please donate to support this wonderful non-profit organisation, and it will also help me to keep going when I hit the dips and walls in the marathon, knowing that I am also helping Sea Change as I run will certainly spur me on.
Thank you so much for in advance.