DOG TO BE HUGE HELP FOR CYLE
FOR some little boys, a dog would be a welcome and happy addition to the family, but for four-year-old Cyle Halpin, it could change his life.
The Lia Bhreaga lad has cerebral palsy, and although he’s been doing quite well walking for small distances without his special buggy or frame, he still has some issues with balance, with which an assistance dog would greatly help.
His parents have now launched a drive to raise funds for that special four-legged friend which could help with this young man’s independence.
FOR some little boys, a dog would be a welcome and happy addition to the family, but for four-year-old Cyle Halpin, it could change his life.
The Lia Bhreaga lad has Cerebral Palsy, and although he’s been doing quite well walking for small distances without his special buggy or frame, he still has some issues with balance, with which an assistance dog would greatly help.
His parents have now launched a drive to raise funds for that special four-legged friend which could help with this young man’s independence.
“Cyle was born at 34 just weeks and spent some time in the neonatal unit in the Lourdes hospital afterwards,” explains his mum Michelle. “When he came home, we noticed he wasn’t able to sit or roll over like his brother could when he was younger, so after talking to the paediatric doctor and physiotherapy in the hospital, he was referred to the Early Intervention Team.”
So from just one year old, Cyle have been there attending physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language, and his mum and dad Neville say he has come on leaps and bounds with their support.
“At the moment, he is using a special buggy which allows him to get out for long walks, and doubles as a seat for home meals so he can join the family, and helps him to sit up straight,” explains Michelle.
“He is in P1 in St Ita’s and he really loves it there and has made so many friends, and even though he is non-verbal, hopes to be chatting lots in the future.”
Although Cyle began to walk without his frame this time last year, he still has issues with his balance and can’t navigate footpaths, kerbs or uneven ground.
“It was a neighbour of ours Lisa McGuinness who suggested we get involved in a joint Lip Sync Battle event taking place for Odie O’Brien and Hannah Donnelly on December 7th. Before then, she and Nicola Bedford have organised some other local events to get the ball rolling on fundraising, and we are so grateful for their help.”
It costs around €6,000 to train an assistance dog for Cyle and the family is also hoping to buy a special bike to help Cyle’s mobility, which costs around the same.
“It’s a lot of money, which we would never be able to afford ourselves, but it would make such a difference to Cyle,” adds Michelle. “We appreciate any help we can get, and we are always so surprised at how generous the Drogheda community seems to be when it comes to helping children in the town.”
There will be a Quiz night in the Windmill House at 8.30pm this Tuesday (November 6th) and a Wax Night this Friday November 9th at 8.30pm in the Pheasant to raise funds for the three children. If you would like to join in the Wax Night, call Mo on 087 1194436.