Story
Ben has always had a obsession for walking long distances since he was very young. When he was 14, he took part in a Duke of Edinburgh expedition around the River Cuckmere, but his anxiety got too much and at 4am he walked the 12 miles back home all alone in the dark after quietly escaping his tent. Having the right support that he needs is key to Ben’s development in the future.
This challenge for Ben will be heightened due to his autism and severe anxiety. He is fascinated by the extremes of things, whether that be the tallest or heaviest wrestlers, the fastest and slowest cars, or even the largest and littlest species of dogs. It is this fascination that has drawn him to this particular feat.
The support that Ben needs means that I will be doing the challenge as well to help him cope with any anxieties and difficulties that he may face along the way.
We begin on Saturday with Ben Nevis (1344m - the highest mountain in the UK). We then climb Scafell Pike (978m) in the dark with head torches which we hope to achieve before midnight. Finally ending with Snowdon (1085m) early Sunday morning.
The National Autistic Society have been very successful in raising awareness for autism, but there is still a lot more that can be done.
Any donation would be more than welcome to a very worthy cause and help encourage Ben on his way.
Thank you.
Tom