A Leeds man has turned his condition into a 'superpower' to help spread awareness for a victim support charity, while also breaking world records. Matthew Akpan was diagnosed with Aspergers later in life at the age of 24 following years of wondering why he felt held back during university.
Matthew grew up in Cross Gates, Leeds, and in 2008 he attended Manchester Metropolitan University to study sports and leisure but he failed a module which saw him resit the year. He then failed again and was forced to take a year out of study and it was at this point he thought there was something holding him back.
He spoke with his family and discussed the idea that he might have Aspergers, with his mum helping him research the condition, which can cause impaired language and communication skills as well as repetitive or restrictive thinking and behavior.
