A lad from Aylesbury is currently living life in a glass box as part of a campaign to raise awareness for autism.
On Wednesday morning, Callum Mills kicked off a 50 hour stint inside a large glass box positioned by the entrance of the town's Tesco store. The idea behind the glass box is to show people how it can feel to be autistic. Callum, who works for the Tesco Broadfields store where the charity event is being held, said: "I know parents of autistic children have told the charity that the glass box is a really powerful metaphor for the condition.
"Being stared at from all directions, while being isolated and finding it difficult to communicate, is often how those living with autism feel."
This 50 hour glass box challenge will fund raise for Caudwell Children, a charity that supports disabled children and their families.
Andy Bailey, from Caudwell Children, said: "Callum is a popular chap with a great sense of humour, which I think will prove vital once the challenge starts. There is not much space inside the box, and I imagine he will experience vulnerability and frustration as the hours pass by. Also, mobile phones and gadgets are banned, so he will be relying on the public to get him through the days and nights."
The challenge, due to finish this Friday afternoon, ties in with the eigth World Autism Day; held every year on April 2nd, which unites charities and families to celebrate autism and raise further awareness for the condition.
Caudwell Children will be supporting Callum throughout his 50 hour challenge, with staff and volunteers close by to engage with the public and shed light on the striking campaign. I know what you're probably thinking here, surely Callum will need to take a few moments to relieve himself? Luckily for Callum, he's allowed a five minute break from the box every two hours to answer nature's call.
Callum is hoping to raise £2,000. You can help his cause by donating to his challenge at the Tesco Broadfields store in Aylesbury if you're local, or via Just Giving.
Words by Matt Headley
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Images courtesy of Callum Mills
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Charity