A SCHOOL pupil in Jersey is currently raising funds in support of Words & Numbers.
Since being diagnosed with dyslexia, CJ Ballantyne has been determined to raise awareness of the difficulties for those who struggle with the condition.
“When I finally got the dyslexia diagnosis, it made me feel like I’m not just stupid – there is a real reason why I struggle,” said the 11-year-old Plat Douet pupil.
“My dream is to raise awareness for dyslexia and to support Words & Numbers, who have been my heroes in teaching me to read and who have given me some much-needed hope that I can achieve what I want in life despite my diagnosis.”
Last year, kind-hearted CJ – who also has autism, ADHD and a vision-processing condition known as Irlen Syndrome – raised £1,000 for the charity, which is dedicated to supporting young people and adults to improve their literacy and/or numeracy skills. The fundraising challenge saw CJ running 5km and he intends to repeat a similar run this summer, once again in support of Words & Numbers.
The run will take place on Tuesday 15 July from 5.30pm, with CJ starting and finishing at La Frégate, and running to The Hamburger and back.
“The hope Words & Numbers have given me has been priceless and they need as much funding as possible to reach more people for support,” said Jersey-born CJ.
“I was telling my mum the other day, when she asked why I won’t give up after watching how hard I struggle and how upset I get, I said: ‘No way, mum, I need to do this, I need to read and write so I can show everyone out there with these struggles that they can do it as well. I want people to have hope and I’m never going to give up until I pass English and go to university’.”
Islanders are invited to support CJ by donating to his JustGiving page – “I’m raising £750 to Words and Numbers” – or by joining CJ for the fundraising 5k challenge, whether by walking, running or cycling.
“It is important that others with dyslexia do not lose hope and that they don’t get made fun of because it’s not a nice feeling,” said CJ.
“I often see people being unkind and this really upsets me. People should always be understanding and kind, and shouldn’t let anyone feel like they are stupid just because they can’t do something.”
Plat Douet pupil raising awareness that words and numbers matter
