She cannot stand because of spinal condition - but skydiver Jemma will now abseil for charity

Jemma Collins was two years old when diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy — which weakens muscles and causes problems with movement — and can no longer stand. Yet it has not held her back.

In the 35-year-old’s latest fundraising challenge for Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK, she will freefall abseil from the Arcelormittal Orbit in Stratford next month.

Ms Collins, who teaches maths at Heathcote School in Chingford, will also be marking 10 years since the death of her father, Roy.

“He died unexpectedly from acute cardiac failure at 62, while on holiday with my mum,” she explained. “He always encouraged me with my condition. He never made me feel it would hold me back and he always supported the charity, which is why I want to do this for him. I miss him more than words could ever describe.”