2018 Virgin Money London Marathon

[p]I moved to Wiltshire last year with my young family. We were keen to be involved in the local community. A running club had just started in our village (Shrewton), and although I had not run since school I signed up for their couch to 5k programme for new runners. My first run was in February 2017. Since then I have found that running is great for both my physical and mental health. During the year I have progressed my running representing Shrewton Running Club in the Wiltshire Road Running League (including my first Half Marathon in September). I have been fortunate enough to win the ballot to represent Shrewton Running Club at the 2018 London Marathon. [/p][p]Early in 2018 I was given a positive assessment for Autistic Spectrum Disorder (Asperger Syndrome). My research into Autism highlighted how little I, (and many others), knew about the condition. Discussions with friends and relatives highlighted some of the many misconceptions there are about the condition and those that are affected by it. I'm running the marathon in support of the National Autistic Society to support their work in improving the awareness of Autism and to help autistic people get more support, understanding and appreciation.[/p][p]For me the identification has helped improve my self awareness and identify potential coping strategies for related issues I encounter on a daily basis. [/p][p]"I'm autistic and sometimes I get too much information. It's like everything's building up inside my head. Like my brain is crowded with questions – and about to explode.[/p][p]I try my hardest to filter it all. But there's too much, and saying anything is too hard".[/p][p]Understand autism, the person, and the change you can make. #AutismTMI[/p][p]Thank you for reading this story, if you'd like to donate please use gift aid to maximise the contribution received by the charity. [/p]