‘Taking part in the Foundation’s activities changed Daniel’s life’
A sport and football scheme in Sunderland is proving to be a lifeline for hundreds of families with disabled children.
Daniel McGill’s family say the Foundation of Light’s programmes at the Beacon of Light has been life-changing for the youngster – who is one of 2,000 the charity works with every year.
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Daniel’s dad Tony say’s he can’t thank the Foundation enough for the opportunities it has created for his son.
Daniel, who attends Barbara Priestman Academy, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth and is autistic, resulting in challenges with movement and social skills.
But his passion for football has given him a focus and the Foundation of Light has provided a safe place for him to play, learn and develop.
He said: “Before Daniel came to the Foundation there wasn’t really a lot for him to do. We were finding it difficult to take him anywhere because he didn’t want to go to too many places and we felt he wasn’t able to join in.
“Now he takes part in the multi-sports and also playing football in a team on a Saturday morning.
“Taking part in the activities has changed Daniel’s life. He’s made new friends, changed physically and developed mentally.
“That’s down to the Foundation staff and he can’t thank them enough for the impact they have made. The coaching staff really understand his particular needs and it has just been a Godsend.”
Daniel said “When I play here everyone is so happy. All the coaches are fantastic.”
Daniel is just one of over 2,000 children, young people and adults with disabilities that the Foundation of Light works with each year.
Michael Colclough, head of informal and community education at the Foundation of Light, said “We are so proud of the progress that Daniel has made. We continue to work hard to provide accessible opportunities to sport for everyone, encouraging not only our young people to learn and grow but also provide support for their families and give them a safe place to have fun together.”
*Just £4 allows the Foundation to provide specialist multi-sport and dance sessions for children and young people with disabilities.
To support young people like Daniel, donate at https:// justgiving.com/safc