HAVE YOUR SAY
I really wanted to thank Claire Chamberlain for her kind words to us parents of children on the autistic spectrum [see August issue]. It can be very difficult at times and I’ve also found it very isolating, even among my other mum friends. But I’ve always turned to running to help me cope with this – and other struggles in my life.
A couple of years ago I suggested that my son came running with me to help him control some of his excessive energy (he also has ADHD), and to engage in sport as he struggles with the complex social interactions involved in team sports such as football. I can honestly say it has been the most positive thing I have ever done for us both. I now have a wonderful, enthusiastic running buddy who gets me out in absolutely all weather! Also his self-esteem has really sky-rocketed. He’s fit and healthy and was even chosen to represent his school at cross-country, something which would have been completely unimaginable only a short time ago. I don’t know if I am his superhero, but he’s definitely mine.