My Journey So Far…

Grace my daughter has accomplished many challenges in her life time. She always is determined to complete them and this challenge I am sure she will do her very best to finish. I am very proud of her. Grace loves her sister whom has learning difficulties and this is shown in the choices she has made in her life. The whole family will be cheering her on.

Many of us face challenges in our lives but actually choosing to challenge yourself to do this, Grace, you are one crazy woman. However as someone who is fiercely determined and very organised you will undoubtedly have all your training meticulously planned and will be victorious in conquering your challenges. It will be a fantastic achievement and Carers Leeds is hugely proud and honoured that you will be raising money for us. Good luck!

I first met Grace when she was a student at the University of Gloucestershire, studying for a sports development degree. She was taking a module I taught called Adapted Physical Activity. Part of the requirements of this module was that students had to complete a placement in the local community working with individuals with disabilities. Grace came to see me with an idea of setting up a creative arts and sports programme for individuals in local care homes. I remember listening to her ideas and thinking WOW this will be amazing, if she can pull it off. Over the semester Grace kept popping in to see me, sharing her ideas and having a cry when things weren’t going to plan! I wasn’t sure what to expect when the day arrived for the launch of the project but it was amazing. It was one of the best experiences I have ever had as a lecturer. The local tennis center was buzzing.. people were playing games, dancing, making Olympic torches and singing. Everyone was smiling and having a great time. I realised that day that when Grace says she is going to do something, she will. The key thing is that she is always thinking about others and what she can do for them. I am so proud of Grace and what she has achieved. I wish her loads of luck in her next adventure!