But Spencer's challenges are supposedly simple tasks we take for granted – learning to dress, learning to talk and learning to walk.

For Spencer, who has severe learning difficulties, his short life has already been a whirl of medical problems and hospital appointments.

However, Spencer's bravery has inspired his mother Liza Schwarz (38) to fulfil her lifelong ambition – to own and run a hairdressing salon.
Named after her son, Spencer's, in Park Road, Peterborough, opened on Monday, with a picture of Spencer swimming with dolphins in Florida taking pride of place on one of the walls.

Mrs Schwarz, of Gordon Way, Orton Longueville, Peterborough, said: "Spencer has been through so much in his life, and it is his bravery and determination that has prompted me to set up my own business.

"Spencer is my inspiration and he has shown that the seemingly impossible can be achieved if you put your mind to it."

A flyer, which gives a snapshot of Spencer's life, says: "Five months after my son was born, his long battle began. He is nine now, and the numerous lengthy appointments and tests at Great Ormond Street hospital are ongoing.

"Spencer has severe learning difficulties and many medical problems. He says few words due to part of his brain not forming in pregnancy, and he was four before he learned to walk – a massive achievement and one we all take for granted.

"Since clearing this hurdle, Spencer has achieved many goals – his latest being able to take his own socks off ready for bath time, and saying the word 'ghost' while running around the house in his skeleton outfit.

"Now it's time to realise my dream. So, I'm putting my 20 years of hairdressing and salon management experience into opening a salon of my own. Only one name seemed appropriate."

Mrs Schwarz's husband Karl (33), who met his wife on a £9.50 holiday in Hunstanton, added: "How Lisa copes mentally and physically is amazing. For her to have achieved her dream is unbelievable."

Mrs Schwarz also cuts hair at The Phoenix School, in Orton Goldhay, where Spencer is a pupil.