I would like to introduce our friend Maria Smallman. We first met Maria last summer when she and her partner Andy contacted us to say they had heard of Jack's appeal and they had been selling Autism Awareness badges to raise funds for him.

Maria & Andy also have a little boy diagnosed with ASD and when their son was diagnosed they decided to do something positive and raise awareness of his condition. All the money they raised was very kindly donated to Jack's appeal.

Maria & Andy have been very supportive of our cause and Maria is now also volunteering for Jack in his Son-Rise Program. We are very grateful to have Maria as part of our team! she is truly amazing and is always looking for ways to help other people.

Maria is taking part in The Bupa Great Manchester Run on 17 May 2009. Its a grueling 10 km run and all of the proceeds will be donated to The National Autistic Society to benefit families up and down the country who are affected by Autism.

I'm sure you will agree Maria is an amazing lady and she would really appreciate your support.

Visit Maria's just giving page at