Kate started at Horsforth High School this year and we were thrilled when she came home with details of a charity swim on 8 November and one of the charities chosen by the School is Sunshine and Smiles!
Sadly for Kate, it meant that she couldn't really get out of taking part given the charity offers support to her brother, Adam and our whole family. Having just finished doing any competitive swimming training, she was pretty reluctant to sign up for the school swimming team but we hope she can use her swimming talents to raise some money on this occasion.
Sunshine and Smiles now provide a support network for over 120 children and young people who have Down Syndrome, and their families improving the lives and opportunities for children and young people with Down syndrome through speech & language therapy, regular groups and activities, individual support and advocacy. Amazing, given it was set up by just a few families in 2011!
The charity also raises awareness and challenges preconceptions about Down Syndrome in the wider community. It relies solely on donations, grants and volunteers to provide the support and activities which are free to access for the families in the network.
How Kate's fundraising will help
One of the most popular groups is the fortnightly family swim at Bramley Baths.
Every other Saturday, families can join a fun splash around which includes mums, dads, brothers and sisters, and also offers swimming lessons and the opportunity for the children and young people with Down Syndrome to get swimming badges.
The money raised for Sunshine & Smiles at the swimming gala in November will go directly to funding these family swim sessions, ensuring that they remain accessible to all so really every few pounds makes a difference.
Thanks for reading and your donation if you choose to make one.
Kate (Adam, Stuart and Jill) x
