Panto means so much to kids like Rishi
IT’S the kind of festive fun that most of us take for granted – but for 17-year-old Rishi it is the best day of his life.
He suffers from epilepsy and cerebral palsy that affects all four of his limbs, meaning he cannot stand or even turn a page, and has to be fed most of his meals.
But thanks to staff at Action for Children’s disability care home, The Grove, he and other youngsters whose lives are severely affected by disability can celebrate Christmas just like other kids. This year they were taken to the panto – and even met the stars, including Benidorm’s Danny Walters. Then there was a party with music, games and Santa.
Rishi’s mum Vishali Mukerji, 48, has been getting respite care for him at The Grove in Aylesbury, Bucks, for two years.
She says: “The Christmas party is the absolute highlight of Rishi’s life, and it’s the first time he’s ever been to a panto.
“He loves outings with his friends. Rishi goes to The Grove once a week.
“We depend on them and trust them completely to look after our son.”
Rishi, from nearby High Wycombe, also enjoys residential short breaks designed to support young people with learning disabilities and complex health needs.
The fun and stimulating environment allows the youngsters to form close friendships and build independence skills.
Vishali, who also has son Raghav, 23, with husband Rahul, 48, says: “These people really care and understand – and they take the time and effort to help.”
The Mirror’s Give Kids a Cracking Christmas appeal is raising money for Action For Children. The Grove boss Sam Oliver, 46, says: “Without services like this there’d be more families going into crisis.”