AN appeal for a “hero” to help raise funds for a vital piece of equipment to aid a Christchurch youngster has ended in success.
Little Callum Rhodes has Cerebral Palsy and West Syndrome, which means he is unable to walk unaided and is prone to seizures.
The two-year-old, who has to be constantly supervised, uses different sounds to indicate his feelings and despite his condition likes to try and walk everywhere.
But because of his complex health needs, his mum Claire and dad Simon have to hold on to him and support him because he doesn’t have the necessary muscle tone to stand.
Claire and Simon, along with the charity Newlife Foundation, recently appealed for help in funding a walker to allow Callum to interact more fully with his friends at First Opportunities nursery in New Milton.
And as a result, Paul Turton, inset, from Christchurch, who will be running the London Marathon on Sunday April 22, contacted the charity to pledge all his donations – £660 so far – to the cause.
Claire said: “We can’t believe it has happened this quickly.
“Paul phoned the charity after seeing the piece in the Echo and said he would like to do it for Callum.
“We’ve got the money we need and so much more, which will go to Newlife to help others.
“We’re hoping to get the walker in June. Callum loves walking and once he has this I probably won’t be able to catch him.”
Paul said: “I saw Callum’s story on the website and wanted to help.
“I’m from Christchurch so it’s quite a nice link.
“I’ve met Callum and his family and it will be really nice to help out and see how he progresses in the future.”
The walker that best suits Callum’s needs costs £1,306 and the family have pledged a donation of £300.
Any money raised surplus to requirements for Callum will help support other disabled and terminally ill children in Dorset.
The charity is currently working with five families in the county with equipment needs totalling £9,011.
Call the fundraising team on 0800 988 4640.
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