We have four people running Leeds 10k for us next Sunday 15th June, and want to wish them the best of luck.
Sharon Townsend, mum of Sunshine & Smiler Lucy is running with her sister Deborah. She says:
'This charity supports my daughter Lucy so much with speech and language, lots of activities such as bowling, the climbing wall, karaoke ( one of her favourites). And much much more.'
Holly Jackson is mum to one of our newest members of Sunshine & Smiles, Alba. She says:
'Last November we welcomed our beautiful daughter, Alba Violet, who not only arrived 5 weeks early but also surprised us with Down Syndrome. Sunshine and Smiles offered immediate support within 24 hours of Alba’s arrival and have continued to do so since.
In June I will be undertaking 2 physical challenges of Leeds 10K race and then Total Warrior - a 12km run with 30 obstacles!'
Ailith Harley-Roberts, our Head of Charity at Sunshine & Smiles is also running. She says:
'As many people will know I have been involved with Sunshine & Smiles - Leeds Down Syndrome Network since it began as a small group of 5 families in 2011. And have been taking on fundraising challenges since 2014 to keep vital funds coming in!
This year I am taking on Leeds 10K, Allerthorpe Sprint Triathlon and Endure24 - a 24 hour endurance run which I am running in a relay team.'
More news articles
Responding to the Down Syndrome Act Consultation
9th Mar 2026
The Down Syndrome Act consultation closes on 30th March. Here’s how to have your voice heard.
Read more...9th Mar 2026
The BabblePlay project involves testing a parent-led app designed to support early vocal development in babies with Down syndrome.
Read more...World Down Syndrome Day 2026 resources
9th Mar 2026
World Down Syndrome Day 2026 is coming up on Saturday 21st March!
Read more...