A little girl from Frodsham is going the extra mile this Mother’s Day by undertaking a sponsored climb of the Eiffel Tower to raise money and awareness of the condition which afflicted her beloved mum during both her pregnancies.

Nine-year-old Sophie Taylor will climb the iconic landmark’s 704 steps to the second platform this Sunday – which is also Sophie’s tenth birthday – to highlight intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), which increased the risks of premature labour, foetal distress and stillbirth, and is typified by intense itching without the presence of a rash.

Thoughtful Sophie decided she’d prefer to take on a challenge in aid of ICP Support – which helped her mum through her experiences with the condition – than have a birthday party this year, after being inspired by a CBBC programme in which a young girl completed a sponsored climb for charity.

Having already raised more than £250 and beaten her £100 target, Sophie is looking forward to the challenge.

“I’m not nervous as it’s just like climbing the stairs at home – only there are a lot more of them,” she said.

Proud mum Kelly  Taylor, 39, said: “We are  extremely proud that she has chosen to climb the Eiffel tower for ICP, especially as it was all Sophie’s idea.

“She was aware of some complications I had during both pregnancies and, although she didn’t know the name of the condition or the charity,  she said that she wanted to climb for the charity that helped her and her little brother arrive safely.

“As ICP is still a  relatively rare condition it is so important to raise awareness and also raise funds for the charity to do further research.”

Founder of ICP Support Jenny Chambers is full of praise for Sophie’s fundraising endeavour.

“We are delighted that Sophie is supporting the charity in this way, “ she  said.

“If she ever has children she too may develop the condition, so it’s vital that by then doctors have clearer guidelines on how to treat and manage the  condition. Sophie’s support now may make all the difference to any pregnancy care she may need in the future.”

To sponsor Sophie, visit

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