The Comet: Tony and mum Elaine are appealing for donations to get a new motorTony and mum Elaine are appealing for donations to get a new motor (Image: Archant)

The mother of a severely disabled man from Letchworth cannot believe people’s generosity after exceeding a fundraising target of £1,000 to help her son in just 24 hours

The Comet: James Trezza is unable to walk or talk and is cared for by his mother Elaine full-time.James Trezza is unable to walk or talk and is cared for by his mother Elaine full-time. (Image: Archant)

Elaine Trezza’s son James has cerebral palsy, developmental delays, epilepsy and severe learning difficulties, which means he cannot walk or talk. The 23-year-old is 100 per cent dependent and has barely left the house since the motor on his wheelchair broke leaving the pair stranded until a passerby rescued them in 2011.

The Comet: James with dad Tony and mum ElaineJames with dad Tony and mum Elaine (Image: Archant)

Shop assistant Tony Jackson from Letchworth pledged to raise £1,000 when he heard James’ story, and set up a JustGiving page for people to donate.

The link was publicised by the Comet on Tuesday night and within 24 hours had reached the milestone.

Elaine, who had to give up work 51/2 years ago to care for James full-time, said: “It is amazing. I didn’t really expect any of this. James loves going out and he will be thrilled when we can get out of the house.

“So many people take it for granted but anyone who has pushed a wheelchair will know they are heavy and the specially made ones are even heavier.

“Three weeks ago it looked like none of this was going to happen but people’s generosity have made it possible so I wanted to say a massive thank you to everyone who donated.”

To donate click on the link at the top right of the page.