Sophie Williams defies stereotypes. She is a well-respected conservation scientist, an inspirational teacher, a musician and a community activator who brings incredible energy to everything she does. Sophie is facing the challenge of her life as she works to regain as much independence as possible following brain injury due to Japanese Encephalitis, which she contracted in south-east China in July 2015.

The virus has paralysed Sophie, 33, who now requires a ventilator and 24-hour care. She has spent the last 2 years in hospitals and rehabilitation centres but is likely to be discharged in the next few months. Sophie is determined to return to the home she shared with her partner Robert in the mountains of Snowdonia, over-looking Anglesey and Puffin Island. However, a lot of work is needed to make space for carers and make the place wheelchair accessible.

Sophie grew up in Yorkshire and was Head Girl at Lady Lumley’s School, Pickering. She fell in love with North Wales when studying ecology at Bangor University. After studying for a masters in Conservation Science at Imperial College she returned to Bangor for her PhD where she worked on the sustainability of palm harvesting. She did post-doctoral research at Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanic Gardens in China but kept her link to Bangor working as a lecturer. She had just landed her dream job as a permanent member of academic staff when she fell ill.

Sophie’s dad Mike says "Sophie has astounded everyone with her recovery and remains very positive. She never complains and to enable her to return home would be such a tremendous boost for her." Sophie’s partner Robert, who has been at her side every day since she fell ill, said "Our lives have been on hold, getting Sophie back home will mean so much to us both, and be really beneficial to her recovery".

Donations and fundraising activities would greatly help Sophie to live a more independent life. Thank you!