Martin Kilgallon London Marathon 2019

ONE DARK AND WET NIGHT I TOOK A WALK ON THE HARD SHOULDER OF THE M62 NEAR BRIGHOUSE IN WEST YORKSHIRE WITH A VIEW TO ENDING MY OWN LIFE.

The stress of being a father of 4 kids  (2 with severe Autism) and a business owner and not realising I was actually depressed had finally taken its toll.

My wife set up a support group called "The Whole Autism Family" to help people in  a similiar situation.
This group grew over a very short time into a charity and was recognised for its efforts by HRH Prince Andrew, receiving the Community initiative award at St James Palace in London.

The Charity is run by a team of Parents and volunteers, no one earns a wage or salary and all funds raised go to helping people.

It enables children with Autism to experience outings, trips and activities that they wouldn't normally be able to due to their sometimes very complex needs.
In addition it helps parents, grandparents and siblings of these children by providing advise, social meetings  and signposting to essential services.

For anyone that knows me I am bursting with energy, positive, fun and sometimes a little , sorry no correct that a lot loopy!

Life is way too short and If i can help add some fun to someones life and make it a little bit more enjoyable then I will. I am really passionate about this cause and the charity sits very close to my heart.

I too volunteer for this amazing cause, during my time I have seen grown men cry and handed out more hugs that I can remember. Ive had a lump in my throat on more than one occasion and the joy I see on children's and parents faces has brought me to tears more than once.

Training for the London Marathon has been far harder than I ever imagined but I will not be defeated and the thought of the Great work the Charity does and the people that rely on it will spur me on finish on the day.