17th – 23rd March is World Downs Syndrome Awareness week with the specific celebrated day being 21st March.

My son LJ is 5 and a week after he was born we found out he had Downs Syndrome. As a first time Mum I really struggled with his diagnosis and was luckily introduced to - The Bedfordshire Downs Syndrome Support Group. They are now our extended family, our voice when we’ve needed help on numerous occasions and they have picked me up when I really felt like there was no one who could possibly understand.

They were formed by a group of parents who felt there was no where for them to seek advice and support as a family and individuals. 25 years on the charity is celebrating it’s 25th Birthday and has helped thousands of families.

They run private speech and language classes along with numerous other therapy sessions,  they introduced us to other local families, arrange days out, family get togethers and so much more. 

The charity is completely self-funded and rely solely on the generosity of others from their donations. Sadly, the charity only has enough funds to keep going for another 15-18months. In light of awareness week coming up and really wanting to give back to them, I thought it would be amazing if we could raise some money for the charity, and I am so grateful for MIB allowing me the opportunity to do this!