Sophie gearing up for Arctic Circle challenge
A STUDENT from Loughborough University is preparing to take on an epic challenge - to embark on an expedition across the Arctic Circle.
Sophie Tyler (19), who is studying graphic communication and illustration at Loughborough University, is planning a major expedition with a pack of huskies and a sled next year to raise funds for the National Autistic Society.
Sophie said: “I will be going on an expedition across the Arctic Circle with my own pack of dogs for a week in April 2020 in aid of the charity, challenging myself both mentally and physically.
“Specifically, I aim to raise at least £3,200 which will go towards providing branches, schools, helplines and services for autistic people; funding the training of parent-to-parent volunteers, who support 43 people annually; family-training support services and annual training to the charity’s Education Rights volunteers, who support nearly 400 people a year.
“My team aims to raise at least £100,000 to fund as many of these services as we can.”
The National Autistic Society is the UK’s leading charity for autistic people (including those with Asperger syndrome) and their families. Autism is a lifelong, developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people, and how they experience the world around them.
To view Sophie’s fund-raising page, where people can donate if they wish to, visit https://lsudare2020.everydayhero. com/uk/sophie-s-dare-expedition-2020
Sophie said: “I would really appreciate any donation, however big or small, to go to this worthy cause.”
Sophie has already carried out some fund-raising events as part of the expedition appeal, including a bucket collection at Euston tube station, dressed as an elf, when she stood in the station and talked to people about the society’s work, and managed to raise almost £300 from generous people getting the tube.
And smaller amounts matter too - she also raised £14 at a pub quiz held at Falk Egg Hall.
Sophie added: “Thank you so much to everyone that has donated and helped me so far. The countdown continues!”