A DISABLED toddler has been given a state-of-the-art powered wheelchair worth £8,500 to help him keep up to speed.
Inspired by his love of fire engines, four-year-old Cody Mannion of Lache received a racing red Permobil Koala Miniflex Powered Wheelchair allowing him to keep up with his best friend and brother, Ronnan, five.
The high-tech chair allows Cody, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), to adjust his height so he can independently reach house utilities, wash his hands and reach things above his normal chair level.
Mum Stacey Young said: “This donation has changed Cody’s life. It’s such a boost for his independence and it’s so nice to see him do things for himself for the first time.
“It’s an amazing piece of equipment which allows him to keep up with his brother Ronnan and helps hold him straight and offers him support. It will help him fit in with the other kids at school.
“He doesn't need to have people to get him around. It's amazing.”
The equipment was donated by charity, Caudwell Children, who are committed to changing the lives of children by providing individual donations of specialist equipment, treatment and therapy.
Cody recently met children with the same condition at a conference for children with SMA – a degenerative neuromuscular disease, which results in the weakness of muscles – and was able to sport his new chair proudly.
Trudi Beswick, chief executive officer for Caudwell Children, said “It’s fantastic to be able to help youngsters like Cody get the equipment to help them enjoy life and achieve new things. Unfortunately vital equipment like these powered wheelchairs are often incredibly costly and out of financial reach for families.”
To apply for equipment from the charity, call 0845 300 1348.
