10k run - Mother and son story

My son is 16. He has autism and learning disabilities. He's a big lad at nearly 16 stone and 5ft 9.He has never seen the point of competitive sport but he will happily walk a few miles. Earlier this year he started doing some personal training at the Cross fit gym I go to. He enjoys it and he is quite strong. A few weeks ago he agreed to run a 10k event with me to raise money for a group he goes to. I knew he could do the distance and we would probably walk it but I wasn't sure how he would be with the crowds and noise (this is a big event that runs through the city, lots of supporters). Race day dawned hot and sunny. I kept us out of the crowds as long as possible and he seemed OK. He was keen to be off so couldn't understand why we didn't move when the starting whistle went (we were near the back). Soon we were off and he started fast, too fast. We soon settled into a walk jog rhythm. He got support from some people we know along the way which he responded well too. He never once asked if we were nearly finished he just kept going. The only dodgy part was when I foolishly poured some cold water on my hand and rubbed it on my head and then did the same to him. He hated it and got really cross. I thought for a minute he was going to refuse to go on but fortunatly at that moment a spectator was handing out jelly babies which distracted him and we carried on. Soon were at the finish with family and friends to cheer us in, 1 hour 36 mins. We raised over £400for the group but the most amazing thing is a race photo that shows my boy, who finds it very hard to feel proud of himself, beaming with pride! Never underestimate what can be achieved with love, perseverance and jelly babies!