THE family of a four-year-old boy with cerebral palsy say he is delighted after receiving a surprise gift of a new bicycle.
Riccardo Dotolo, who attends Wats Dyke Infant School, in Garden Village, Wrexham, has difficulty walking, and uses a walking frame to get around.
The bike was donated to Riccardo by the Caudwell Children’s Charity, and his parents say it will help strengthen his arms and legs.
Riccardo’s father, Lorenzo, said: “We gave him the bike while he was at school, and all his friends came out to watch.
“His face absolutely lit up, he was beaming from ear to ear, it was great, he was obviously over the moon with it.
“We’re hoping it will help him with his balance and posture, as at the moment he’s a little insecure on his feet, and sometimes loses his confidence.
“He’s a determined little chap though, if he wants to get anywhere quickly then he just rolls. Now with this new bike he will be able to play in the playground with all his friends.
“His biggest motivation to improving his walking and movement is being around other children, they adore him and are always fussing over him, he loves it, and they’re always involving him so he never feels left out.
“We don’t know if he will need a wheelchair when he’s older, the doctors said if he’s not walking by the time he’s eight, then he definitely will,” he added.
“But we’re not worried, the high schools all have disability access, so there shouldn’t be any problems.”
Riccardo’s mother, Franca, said: “We’d like to thank the Caudwell charity and all who donated for making this possible and special thanks to all the staff at Wats Dyke School for their hard work and dedication to help children toward a better future.”
