‘I left feeling on a high’: Disability sports event renews mum’s hope for the future

3 mins read

Friday 7 February 2025


Mum Sally with her son Logan

Mum Sally with her son Logan, aged seven.


Meet Sally and her non-verbal autistic son Logan, who had such a blast at our recent sports session for families in North Wales that his mum left feeling on a high – and with renewed hope for the future.

Held in Rhyl, our session was an opportunity for children with additional needs to try out a range of adapted and accessible sports, such as football, athletics, basketball, cricket, boccia, golf and rugby.

Logan struggled at the beginning of the session and had a full meltdown. But with the right approach, things soon changed for the better.

Sally said: “One of Contact’s volunteers supported him and after 20 minutes using calming break outs, lots of patience and encouragement he started to take part in physical play and running about.

“He really settled and enjoyed the full session. It was so lovely to see him laughing and enjoying himself.”

A chance to connect with other parent carers

And Logan wasn’t the only one enjoying himself: the session was also a great chance for Sally to meet other families like hers and connect with other parent carers.

Since Logan’s dad sadly passed away, Sally has struggled with feeling isolated at times – especially as her family live half an hour’s drive away. So being able to connect with other parent carers and Contact staff at our event was a valuable experience.

“I met with another of Contact’s parent volunteers. Lucy’s son is a teenager, but has similar needs to Logan, so it was great to hear her experience. She gave me lots of tips and encouragement. I left feeling on a high,” said Sally.

“It was truly remarkable to see Logan settle, but also watching Sally talk with Lucy, you could see the relief on her face and the hope for the future.”

– Kate, Contact Wales manager

The impact of your support

Sally’s story shows why our workshops and events are so important for bringing parents together and giving disabled children the chance to try something new.

As well as attending our family event, Sally has also been supported by the Contact Cymru team with information and advice on getting a care assessment, applying for respite care, getting help with home adaptations, choosing a school, and making an application for a Bereavement Support Payment (BSP).

It’s thanks to our generous supporters that we are able to help families like Sally’s through our vital events, advice and information. If you are able to, please consider donating so that we can continue supporting thousands of families like hers.