Sophie to overcome her fears for charity

However, Sophie Rolls, 24, is going the extra mile to raise money for Autism Hampshire.

Despite her fear of heights, she will be abseiling down the Spinnaker Tower on April 2 – which also marks World Autism Awareness Day.

Sophie says that she is taking charge of her life, and wants to raise awareness to others on the autism spectrum that life doesn’t have to be limiting.

She explained: ‘I struggled through school, college and social situations throughout my life. I have managed to overcome these struggles by working hard, and persevering with the obstacles life has thrown at me.’

Sophie added that after being diagnosed with Autism two years ago, at the age of 22, the help and support that she has received from friends and family has helped her to understand her world a lot more.

She said: ‘I am now working full time in accounts and I passed my college course in 2015 with flying colours.

‘I have chosen to do this personal challenge to put me outside of my comfort zone, and to help support other people who have experienced the same struggles as me.

‘You can face your fears and you can do anything – don’t let anything get in your way.’

Sophie’s mum, Cheryl Rolls, added: ‘Sophie is a very determined young lady and failure is not an option. We are so proud of her and the way she has decided to make it her mission to help others, so they don’t have to struggle.

‘I am very proud of her for doing it and overcoming her fears – it shows that you can do these things, and hopefully more people are diagnosed rather than slipping through the net.’

If you would like to sponsor Sophie, then you can visit her fundraising page virginmoneygiving.com/SophieRolls.