AN APPEAL has been launched to help a youngster and other disabled children in the area get crucial help.

Cameron Oliver, who is four and lives in Stevenage, is set to receive a specialist therapy tricycle, worth over £800, but the charity providing the equipment urgently needs help.

At 13 months old, Cameron was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The neurological condition affects his mobility and means he is unable to use a standard bike.

The new equipment means Cameron can get cardiovascular exercise and the physiotherapy he requires regularly in a fun, inclusive way.

However, Caudwell Children - which provides family support services, equipment, treatment and therapies for disabled children and their families - says more funds are desperately needed for disabled youngsters like Cameron and are urgently appealing for more help.

Trudi Beswick, chief executive of Caudwell Children, said: “The tricycle is crucial in helping Cameron improve his movement and feel included, but our funds are running low, and unless we get the support of the community, donations like this will disappear.

“We are appealing for kind-hearted members of the public who may be able to fundraise or donate to Caudwell Children and help local families like Cameron’s.

“Equipment like this is not available on the NHS, so Caudwell Children is a lifeline for families caring for a disabled child.

“We are anxious to get as much support as possible from the community, no matter how big or small, so equipment like this can be made available for other children. But we can’t do it alone.”

Cameron’s mum, Stephanie, said: “This tricycle will enable Cameron to play outside like the other children, whilst getting additional physiotherapy.

“When we visit local parks and he is stuck in his wheelchair he wants to be playing like the other children and we have to try and explain to him it isn’t that simple, which is difficult.

“He is starting to understand he’s not quite like everybody else and it frustrates him that he is different.

“We are always looking for alternative ways to do things so he can be a part of everything because, like any other four-year-old, he loves being active and sociable.

“Having the tricycle will allow him to enjoy his surroundings and gain some independence. He’s going to absolutely love it.”

Caudwell Children wants to hear from anyone who can stage a fundraising event, raffle, or make a donation to help Cameron and youngsters in the Hertfordshire region.

Mrs Oliver added: “This piece of equipment is massively important, but specialist equipment is always so much more expensive than mainstream items.

Without Caudwell Children we wouldn’t be able to afford to buy this for Cameron.”

To donate to the appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/Cameron-O or text CAMN99 £2 to 70070. Alternatively call Simon Pedro at Caudwell Children on 07975 981645 or email simon.pedro@caudwellchildren.com