There are around 700,000 people in the UK living with autism, and our brother Hughie is one of them. Hughie is an incredible person. Charming, charismatic, and often described as the George Clooney of the family - he got the looks. 

While we know a lot about Hughie and his character, we are still learning about his mental disability and autism on a daily basis. That's partly because as a society we still don't know enough about autism, especially when it comes to adults. Currently, the total annual research spend on autism is £4 million, the lowest of all major health conditions. That's £5.71 per autistic person in the UK. Not much is it?

This is where Autistica comes in. They are the UK's largest and leading autism research charity, helping to fund and campaign for medical research to understand the causes of autism, improve diagnosis, and develop new treatments and interventions. 

When I look at what the next ten years and beyond hold for Hughie it is pretty scary. What will he need to enjoy his life as fully as possible? How will his mind and body develop as he gets older? Trying to find answers to these and so many other questions is why, as a family, we passionately support the work Autistica is doing.

As a result I will be running four half-marathons this year to raise as much money as possible for Autistica, with each brother joining for a leg of the journey. That's right... Hugh Hayes, a man who has never run more than 20 metres unless it was to go and chat up a pretty girl, will be running 13.1 miles. The challenge begins this March when I run the first half-marathon, followed by the second in May with Matthew, the third in September with Charles, and the fourth and final leg with Hughie and friends in October. 

We would massively appreciate any support or donations, whether it's pennies, £5.71, or even just your encouragement on the days of the races. Thank you!