Karate costume evening raises final funds needed for Portsmouth mum's children's book series on disability

Children and adults dressed up in their favourite costumes for a special session at PSKO Karate in Leigh Park, aiming to boost support for Adelle Spindlove’s book series The Supersiblings Gang.

Baffins mum Adelle is raising £4,000 for her book series to educate children about different disabilities as her four-year-old son Rowan has ADNP, which affects brain formation and development.

Adelle, who has reached the target thanks to the karate club’s £170 donation, said: ‘I had the want and desire to do it but there was definitely something in me that thought people might not get on board with it.

‘As every donation came in, I realised there’s a need for this book. It’s an incredible feeling but it’s also a big sense of responsibility.’

The Supersiblings Training event at St Michael and All Angels Church, Dunsbury Way, was the latest fundraiser from the family-focused karate club.

Chief instructor Michael Fletcher said: ‘All the kids couldn’t wait to do it. Because we have got such a diverse number of students in the club and some of them have siblings with learning difficulties, it was close to our hearts.’

The 63-year-old has been doing karate since 1984, and loves what the art can do for a child’s confidence.

Michael added: ‘What I get out of karate is when I grade the children for their next belt, it’s the smile on their faces and the enthusiasm they have for karate.

‘We have had children come in who have been so timid and withdrawn and six months later they can’t wait to come to the club.’

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Adelle was so pleased with the club’s dedication to helping her reach the fundraising goal.

She said: ‘They’re really tapped into their community which is lovely. They just got on board with it and ran with it which is just amazing, they were so proactive and passionate.

‘I always want to make sure I’m doing all of the SEN kids justice. I want to make sure I’m writing in a positive and respectful way that helps people understand what it’s like to live as a disabled child.’

Adelle’s fundraiser is still open for anyone who would like to donate. Visit uk.gofundme.com/f/children039s-book-on-disability-and-inclusion for more.

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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