Help Rebecca to get new walking frame
● A DISABLED Runcorn youngster has inspired a fundraising drive to buy her specialist walking equipment to reduce pain in her hips.
Rebecca Penney, eight, lives with her grandparents in Halton Lodge and has a complex condition that includes cerebral palsy, epilepsy and hydrocephalus.
Disabled children’s charity Newlife said her family uses a specialneeds buggy at the moment but Rebecca needs a walking frame to be mobile.
In addition, Alder Hey Hospital specialists have recommended she remains mobile to help to reduce hip pain and prevent further problems from developing.
Newlife is hoping ‘local heroes’ will donate and help to raise £2,373 for a replacement.
Rebecca’s family bought her first frame and Newlife stepped in with the second, but she has now outgrown both.
The charity said UK- wide funding cuts have resulted in a 64% increase in applications over the past five years and the organisation is now more reliant on public support than at any time in its 25-year history.
Rebecca’s gran, Denise Sothern, said: “A new walking frame is something that Rebecca would use both at home and at school to support muscle development, improve her head and trunk control and aid digestion – all of which will help maintain her health.
“Not only that but it is Rebecca’s only opportunity to get around independently and join in with class activities and play with the children where we live.
“At the moment she just sits on the sidelines and you can see the frustration in her face, not understanding why she can’t join in.”
To donate, visit www. newlifecharity. co. uk/ cheshire, call 01543 462 777 or email local@ newlifecharity.co.uk