Story
Paddling for Purpose: Navigating Neurodiversity
Hi, my name is Emily, I’m 15 years old and I’m so grateful to be able to share my journey with you!
Four years ago, I made the daunting transition to secondary school. It was loud and socially confusing: so, like many young, undiagnosed autistic girls, I couldn’t cope. I had to spend two years completely isolated at home. I’ve struggled with mental health and autistic burnout, but a diagnosis changed my life. It has helped me to understand myself better, and with the right support, I have started to reintegrate back into education.
Now, I want to give back and help others like me. Disability doesn’t define me: I can be myself and still undertake amazing adventures!
So, I’ve set myself, my best friend Laura and my dad, Craig, an incredible challenge: to paddle 135km of the River Spey from October 25th- October 29th 2025, to raise money for the National Autistic Society (NAS). About 700,000 people in the UK have autism spectrum disorder—that’s about 1 in 100 people—so more effort needs to be made to understand these individuals.
Over 70% of autistic children develop mental health disorders: this needs to change, and you can help!
Why the National Autistic Society?
- Educating the public to reduce stigma and misunderstanding about autism.
- Running specialist autism schools and supporting autistic students in mainstream education.
- Providing resources for families navigating autism.
- Offering guidance and advocacy so autistic people can thrive in society.
Without organizations like NAS, many autistic people—including myself—would struggle even more to be seen, understood, and supported.
How You Can Help:
Every donation counts! My target is £1,000—every contribution will help NAS continue their incredible work. Whether it’s funding school programs, training teachers or supporting families navigating autism challenges—your contribution will make a real difference. Please donate and share my story—because understanding autism shouldn’t be an uphill battle. Thank you so much for your support!
And thank you to Peak Paddlesports (https://peakuk.com/) for their incredible help with equipment, and Stephen at Scottish Rock and Water for their help with navigating the river.