Hi Everybody,

My name’s Ben, I’m 41 years and I’m from Hull, East Yorkshire.

On Saturday 12th April 2025 I’m going to do The Yorkshire Three Peak Challenge for The Matthew’s Hub which is a non profit organisation based in Hull that helps people with Autism.

Last year I was diagnosed with Autism and before I was diagnosed I suffered with depression, anxiety and had a lot of problems with my mental health. I was also overweight, I weighed 14 stone, I was unhealthy, I had no motivation and I was so depressed.

After I had my diagnosis, I felt relieved because I finally found the answer to my problems and it took a massive weight off my shoulder. I then decided on the day that I got my report from my assessment that I was gonna sort my life out. I started going to the gym 5 times a week, I started eating heartily, going for long walks everyday and I gave up alcohol and I haven’t had a drink in over a year. I lost just over 2 stone in weight and I now weigh 12 stone and I feel miles better in myself.

Now that I’ve got myself in shape, I chose to do this challenge not just to test my fitness, but to help other people with the same condition as me.

The Matthew’s Hub provides help and support for autistic people and they also do activities like arts and crafts, day trips and other activities that help with there confidence and skills.

I’m hoping to raise £500 or more to help this great charity that do so much to help people like myself who are on the spectrum that struggle with there mental health and to fit in and feel excepted.

Thank you for reading my story and for your support.

Ben