I'm taking on the Great North Run again to raise money for Sunshine & Smiles. It is a charity close to my heart and one I'm privileged to be a Trustee and Chair of. Our eldest son Alby is 11 years old and has Down Syndrome. Like many children his age he is energetic and loves being active. Mainstream groups and activities are not accessible to him as they do not allow for the pace at which he learns.. Sunshine & Smiles offer a range of groups and activities specifically for children with Down Syndrome, the only organisation in Leeds to do so. Alby has been able to participate in swimming, football, cycling, dance and music, and in doing so has developed not only his physical skills but also his social and teamwork skills.

Recent years has been a challenge for charities and it has been no different for Sunshine & Smiles, resulting in us operating at a deficit each of the last three years. We have some reserves thankfully but it has raised the importance of fundraising.

To help continue the great work Sunshine & Smiles does, I am running the Great North Run on September 8th.

Many thanks!

Marc