Great North Run 2017 for SIGNAL

My name is Louise. I am a serving Detective in the Metropolitan Police and a single parent to a very special 6-year-old boy called Kai who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder back in October 2014. It was after Kai’s diagnosis that I became a member of SIGNAL, a parent support group for autistic children and their families in the borough of Lewisham, South East London, UK where I live. The support they offer to people with family members on the autism spectrum is second to none and it is wonderful that thanks to SIGNAL, children like Kai can benefit from being able to participate in activities, trips and events that he may otherwise be unable to. It is also nice to have the opportunity to meet and seek advice and even be there for other parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. I took up running in 2015 after I won a place in the London Marathon general ballot. I had never particularly liked running prior to this but having grown up with the London Marathon, having a go at it had always been on my 'bucket list'. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and have now developed a love for running. I have now been lucky to get a place in this years Great North Run. I have decided that I would be honoured to run this event and fundraise for it on behalf of SIGNAL. As a single parent I am unable to just head out for a run when the mood takes me so sticking to a training plan is difficult. I have to fit my training in on days off (as long as Kai’s at school) and I use it as a means to get home from work which can be a benefit when the trains are up the spout! I would be extremely grateful for your support and any donation you are able to give to this great organisation. Louise x