Thank to Louise for details of another charity run, it’s great to see people making an effort for charities in need. Ed
John Salter, work colleague and friend of Isle of Wight resident, Tracey Dancy, will be travelling to Tyneside in September, in order to tackle this year’s Great North Run to raise vital funds for the Isle of Wight branch of the National Autistic Society (NAS).
John was inspired to take on the challenge after being amazed by the support the branch has provided for Tracey, who has two children with autism.
John hopes that his half-marathon effort will mean that the Isle of Wight branch can continue to provide information, support and social opportunities for Tracey and other people in the community whose lives are touched by autism.
Haven’t run for 20 years
John Salter, a geophysicist from Sunbury-on-Thames, says: “Last time I ran was about 20 years ago and that’s become a bit of a foggy memory now! I’ve never done anything approaching a half-marathon. After seeing the impact the National Autistic Society Isle of Wight branch had on Tracey’s life, I was truly inspired to take on a real challenge and do something to support such a fantastic charity.
“The branch provides a great resource for people in the community who want to socialise with others in similar situations. Autism is a serious, lifelong and disabling condition, but with the right support in place, people affected by the condition can lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.”
Target of over £500
John is hoping to complete the race, which takes place on 18 September, in two-and-a-half hours and wants to raise more than £500 in funds to help the branch continue its fantastic work.
Louise Foley, Branch Officer for the Isle of Wight Branch of the NAS said: “A huge thanks to John for his fantastic support – we are just thrilled that John has chosen to raise money for us! The Isle of Wight branch of the National Autistic Society is at the heart of the community for people whose lives are touched by autism, but we always want to do more. John’s efforts will really boost that aim. A fundraising challenge like the Great North Run can have very real personal rewards for the people I meet every day. I would encourage others to visit the NAS website and see what they can sign up for today!”
John will be joining more than 54,000 runners who will spend the last few weeks before the race training to take part in the world’s biggest half marathon, which takes place on the 18th September. As well as the pounding of fifty thousand feet, the runners will be encouraged along the world-famous course by the sound of rock, pop, brass, strings, steel and samba!
How to donate
To sponsor John on his Great North Run adventure, please visit him on Just Giving.
To find out more about the National Autistic Society and fundraising events that you can take part in, please visit: www.autism.org.uk/fundraising or call 0870 233 4040.
