Aidan Martin climbs Everest: advocating for autism awareness

WHEN Aidan Martin reached Everest Base Camp earlier this year, it wasn’t just a personal milestone it was a deeply emotional journey with a purpose close to his heart.

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

As someone with several neurodivergent family members, Aidan's climb to the foot of the world's highest peak became a powerful symbol of the daily struggles faced by children and families living with autism.

The 18-year-old from Retreat had been trying to make a difference in his community ever since he lost his best friend to suicide in 2021 a loss that changed the course of his life.