We are Thomas (11), Oscar (9) & Leo (9). We currently live in Frankfurt, Germany and all go to the same school.
We are all keen runners, and run for our school cross country team here in Frankfurt, so we wanted to run in the Frankfurt Mini-Marathon, and thought it was also a good opportunity to do something for a good cause.
This is our first time running for Mencap or any other charity, but we really enjoyed it, and having the extra motivation!
Our aunt was born with
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome, also known as Down's syndrome, is a type of disability. People with Down syndrome may find it hard to learn new things and may need support. They may have more problems with their health too.
, so our dad grew up in the UK in a family supporting someone with a
learning disability
A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things.
, and experienced both the challenges and privileges that brings.
“Our family received support from Mencap both for our aunt directly (such as building a social life through Mencap youth club) and for the family (such as weekend
respite
Respite is when a person goes somewhere for a few hours or days to have a break. People with a learning disability can have respite from their carers and family, and carers and family can have respite from the people they care for.
care).”
It can be really rewarding supporting someone with a learning disability, but can also be tough. Mencap is such a fantastic charity, that does such impactful work.
“When you get tired on your run, you can think of all the people who Mencap help and it gives you the extra motivation to keep going!”
By Mencap