Stories

Ten year old Aimee is a happy little girl who loves her Riding for the Disabled classes, swimming, the computer and especially playing with her big sister. This is despite a life-limiting neurological condition that means she has no speech, is in nappies and can only be fed by gastrostomy (directly into her stomach).

8 year old Xander has autism that severely affects his ability to communicate, interact and learn. He has multiple other health issues, yet he is a big, strong boy.

Even at 5 years old, Taylor is a big, strong boy. Along with Autism and communication problems, Taylor finds it incredibly difficult to manage his sensory difficulties. He has no sense of danger, to himself or others.

Not being able to walk unaided made it very difficult for Dylan to join in activities, until he discovered wheelchair basketball.

13 year old Josh has global development delay resulting in severe communication difficulties and sensory needs. His ability to understand is far more advanced than his ability to express himself.

A grant from Variety, made via London Youth, enabled Laburnum Boat Club to buy a new fifteen foot Venture Ranger Canadian Canoe.

Three year old Oliver is a happy, active and inquisitive little boy with Downs Syndrome. His problems were compounded when he was also diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. The treatment for this condition, which includes chemotherapy, affects his immune system making Oliver much more vulnerable to infection so he is not able to mix with other children until his condition improves.

Alice is a 12 year old girl with Niemann-Pick Disease Type C which is a life-limiting and degenerative condition. She has lost the ability to walk, talk and eat and needs 24 hour care and supervision. Alice enjoys stories, music, art and swimming.

Luna has Four Limb Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy so she has very limited use of her arms and legs. A hearing impairment and development delay, further compound this bright little 6 year old’s problems.

George has Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy and is reliant on help for all his personal needs such as washing, getting dressed and eating.