Thank you for taking the time to visit my page. There have been two inspirations behind my walk to raise money. Firstly, I wanted to mark my 40th birthday with something slightly more meaningful and memorable than the usual party or big family/friends meal or night out. Secondly, and more importantly, very good friends of mine (Kevin and Carol Humphreys) have two sons, one of which (Daniel) who is recognised as being on the autism spectrum. Having spent a lot of time with the family, I have observed and listened to the range of emotions and difficulties Kevin and Carol go through on a daily basis regarding Daniel. As a parent myself, I understand the natural instinct of wanting my children to be safe, healthy and happy. But I also recognise that when I've had a tough day, or I'm tired or down, I can afford myself the luxury of having some time to myself, and my boys understand that. Being the parent to a child with autism isnt like that though, its 24/7 plus!
On top of the obvious medical and treatment concerns for Daniel, Kevin and Carol worry about the future. Whether its schools, college, university, friends, or any of the other things the rest of us take for granted, they have to carefully consider and plan for those changes in his life so that he embraces the changes, feels comfortable and confident. But it occured to me that who cares the carers? Who do Kevin and Carol turn to when they are tired or have had a tough day. Who do they seek when they have questions? Who picks them up when they are down? And what about siblings? Not through choice, but it can often be the case that brothers or sisters get 'forgotten'. Not because they dont deserve the same level of attention but purely because sometimes there just arent enough hours in the day. It can be tough on those young people too. Firends and family cant always be there, so its important there is support outside of their nearest and dearest.
So as they are my inspiration I want to raise money for a cause or organisation who dedicate their efforts to the entire family of an autistic child. To that end, I have chosen South West Autism CIC. Based in Devon, they offer a range of support services for parents and carers, as well as the child or young person too.
And whats the event I have chosen to do? Well, I wanted to do something a little bit different, something physical and challenging. So, on May 19th, 20th and 21st, I will be walking the entire width of Devon, the widest part of the West Country, coast to coast.........non stop, without sleep! I will map read as I go along the route, which I have devised to tackle as many footpaths, bridleways, byways and tracks as possible, only taking to the public highway where absolutely necessary. Spanning Dartmoor and Exmoor, it will measure approximately 105 miles and I aim to complete it in around 42 hours. To help me along the way, I will have voluteer friends and family walking sections with me  so I have friendly encouragement along the way. My support vehicle will provide me with food and drink, and other supplies as required.
I'm certainly no athelete, I'm not even very fit, so this will be more about determination and the desire to raise some money for the benefit of others. A couple of days of hard work and undoubted pain, surely thats worth sponsoring me for if nothing else?!!

Thanks for reading, and donating.

Brendan