SHANE Saunders is in training to run the Edinburgh Marathon to raise funds for the service that has been supporting his son since he was three-years-old.
The Sanquhar based dad and his wife Nicole praised the support they have received from Quarriers Dumfries and Galloway Family Support Service.
Their son, Miller, 13, has complex needs including autism, and global development delay.
Shane said: “I am raising funds to say thank you for all the support that Miller has received (from Quarriers). His support worker Lauren Elliot is affectionately called Miller’s other mum in this house. She has been working with Miller since he was three.
“We have two other children and having Lauren spend time with Miller for a few hours a week gave us quality time to spend with them and also time for us to spend together. She helps Miller build his life skills by being as independent as possible.”
Shane added: “I am not a runner, but I never back down from a challenge. I’m training to be a personal trainer, so going through this experience will be helpful to advise my clients in the future.
“I am fairly confident I will finish with a time of under four hours.”
Nicole added: “Shane wanted to raise funds for Quarriers because the service really means something to us.
“It’s such a worthwhile service and we want to give back for all the help and support we have received.”
Quarriers provides services to children, young people and families affected by disability throughout the region.
Professional and helpful staff can offer short breaks for children, support for families, and a father’s project for dads and male carers of disabled children supported by the service.
Shane is hoping to raise £500 for the service with the money going towards the summer programme.
He said: “Running a marathon might mean I’m in physical pain for a few hours, but that is nothing compared to the complexities that Miller faces and manages to cope with every day.”
You can help Shane reach his funding goal on May 26 by donating at justgiving.com/fundraising/Shane-Saunders
