Walking the extra mile – Actually, 100 of them!

Charity founder’s son, Jack, took on a 100-mile walking challenge in support of SNAP Awareness Week back in June.

SNAP’s Honorary Life President, Hilary Needham, founded the charity after being inspired by her son, Jack. Born prematurely weighing just 2lb 9ozs, Hilary described him as an “extremely difficult and demanding baby but it was a miracle he was with us.”

“As he grew and I took him to preschool groups it became apparent that he was different to other children. Despite our concerns, Jack started at the local school, but he only lasted a few hours before I got a phone call, they had never met anyone quite like Jack.  Shortly after this, we finally got a diagnosis from Guy’s Hospital that Jack had an extremely challenging form of autism. This came with a mixture of fear and relief. Thirty years ago, very few people had heard of autism and the only understanding that most people had was from the film ‘Rain Man’.”

“I learnt a lot from having my son and soon became aware of the lack of provision for families such as mine. In 1994, when Jack was 7 years old, I got together with seven women around my kitchen table in Priests Lane, Shenfield, and we decided to do something about it. I wanted to share the knowledge I’d gained from supporting Jack. SNAP was born.”

The challenge

“Jack loves to walk and be outside, and physical activity is a vital part of his routine. With SNAP Awareness Week, we wanted to get involved so embarked on this journey with encouragement and support from his wonderful care team at Meadow View. The challenge of walking 100 miles to raise awareness and funds for SNAP was set”.

“Every step Jack took symbolised the strength and resilience of SNAP families as they navigate their unique challenges.”

Celebrate

His older sister Amy shared, “Well done Jack, we are so proud of you raising money to help little Jacks like you! We think you definitely need a box of Maltesers to celebrate after all that walking!”

Jack did indeed celebrate with Maltesers, a gift from his parents upon completion! Hilary shared, “Congratulations Jack on completing your 100-mile walking challenge and raising over £2,500 for SNAP. You are amazing and did so well. We are all so proud of you. Huge thanks to your care team who supported you to do this and to all your family and friends who donated so generously to support SNAP, the charity that is so dear to our family.”

If you feel inspired by Jack and want to take on your own challenge for SNAP, reach out to our Fundraising Team on 01277 245345 or email [email protected].