Bringing Brighter Tomorrows to Aberdeen Children & Families

Hello! As many will know my name is Natasha McLennan. I’m a self-employed hairdresser, living in Aberdeen with my two children and my partner, Kieran, my whole world, firstly I am deeply grateful for the life I live, with all its challenges and blessings, because it has shaped me into who I am today. Since having my children, my life has changed in ways I could never have imagined. The stress and struggles we’ve faced as a family have been immense.

Every day feels like a fight—just to secure basic rights and understanding for my son. The impact this has had on my life is something I can’t even begin to explain. The pressure is constant, and it affects every part of our lives, including our relationships. But by no means am I complaining—if anything, this journey has made me a better version of myself. I see the world in a completely different way now, and it’s true: your children teach you things you never imagined you’d learn.

I wanted to share my journey with you to help you understand the reasoning behind this fundraiser. The challenges we’ve faced as a family, especially with my son Oakley’s autism diagnosis, have shown me how much work is still needed to create a more inclusive, supportive society. One organization that has made all the difference in our lives is Early Intervention Aberdeen.

Early Intervention Aberdeen is so much more than just a charity—it’s a warm, inclusive, and welcoming environment where children like my son can truly thrive. It’s a place that understands kids like Oakley and offers them opportunities that society often overlooks.

From speech and language therapy to sensory and nature sessions, Early Intervention provides life-changing support. It creates a space where families feel seen and supported—a place where you don’t have to explain or apologize, because everyone just “gets it.” Early Intervention Aberdeen urgently needs support, as it no longer receives any government or council funding and is entirely reliant on Linda’s incredible dedication and personal efforts to keep it running.

Linda, who runs Early Intervention, has been a rock for me and so many other families. Her dedication, advice, and unwavering support have been nothing short of life-changing. Linda funds this vital work entirely on her own, and I want to give back to her and this amazing organization that has helped us so much.

Last year, I made a promise to myself to prioritize my health both physical and mental. After my mental health hit an all-time low and my weight reached 18.5 stone, I felt like I’d lost myself completely. Everyday life felt overwhelming, and I was constantly fighting battles I didn’t think I could win.

For months, progress was slow, and I gave up more times than I can count. But in September, I made a new promise to myself: I got back into the gym, started running (even when 5 minutes felt impossible), and began working with a personal trainer. Now, I’m over 4 stone lighter, still going strong, and determined to keep going.

My biggest challenge yet is a half marathon this March, never having run even a 5k less than 8 weeks away. I won’t lie—I’m terrified. But I’m doing this for my kids. My two little ones, especially my son Oakley, are my greatest motivation. They’ve kept me going through the hardest times, showing me joy and resilience even on the darkest days.

I’m dedicating my half marathon to raising funds for Early Intervention Aberdeen, so Linda can continue her incredible work. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a real difference to the children and families who rely on this lifeline.

By supporting this cause, you’re helping to create brighter futures for neurodivergent children, giving them opportunities to grow, learn, and feel valued in a world that too often overlooks them.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting my journey. Your kindness means the world to me, to my family, and to the families Early Intervention helps every day.

Let’s bring brighter days to the children and families who need it most. Together, we can make a difference.