Appeal to help young boy live life to the full
A mother has issued a rallying call for supporters to help with a fundraising event in honour of her young son who has a rare medical condition.
Gemma Hickman is appealing for help from businesses for the event in aid of her eight-year-old son Luis who has a genetic condition called chromosome 1p36 deletion.
He has severe learning difficulties and is unable to walk unaided or talk, although he does communicate through Makaton, a language programme which uses signs and symbols.
The mother-of-three from Stourbridge is hoping to raise cash for specialist equipment such as a tablet computer to help him communicate and a trike to aid his mobility. She said: "He is a very loving and sociable little boy who wants to access everything around him. Unfortunately because of his disabilities this is not always possible.
"Luis needs the assistance of technology and equipment and I?have to say the NHS are great and have provided Luis with lots of vital equipment he needs.
"As you can imagine there are lots of things that simply can not be funded by the NHS as there is just not enough money in the pot.
"Specialist equipment is so expensive and can sometimes be ten times the amount you would pay typically for example a specialist trike costs in excess of £1,000. A Luis proof tablet with special applications on to assist his communication is double."
She added: "All I want is to give Luis every opportunity to enjoy his environment and have the same opportunities as his brothers."
The fundraising event will take place at David Lloyd Leisure in Brierley Hill on October 6.
Volunteers are being urged to come forward to buy and sell tickets, while organisers are on the lookout for items for a tombola and raffle.
She is also appealing for businesses to help with balloons and decorations for the room and entertainment for children.
Anyone who is able to help can contact her by email at ghutton@hotmail.co.uk or by calling 07568137147.
