Electric wheelchair appeal to help Peterborough’s Arlie (4) be independent at school

Twin Arlie was diagnosed with hydrocephalus at birth, resulting in him developing cerebral palsy.

Dawne was originally told that Arlie would never be able to walk, but surpassing all odds he is able to take steps, though only in very short bursts as it causes him pain and fatigue.

His brother Kobi doesn’t suffer with any health conditions.

Determined to be “just like his brother”, Arlie uses splints or a walking frame in the garden. After Arlie was declined an electric wheelchair by the NHS Dawne decided to set up a fundraiser herself. Needing to raise £4,500 before September, she has currently managed to raise £1,654.

Only using his walker in the garden Arlie ‘wouldn’t be able to manage it to the end of the road. Though he has a manual wheelchair, Arlie’s physiotherapist recommends an electric one to give him more control. Falling up to 100 times a day at home, Dawne worries about how he will manage starting school in a larger environment.

She said: “Arlie has already noticed he is different from his brother and his friends. If he could have an electric wheelchair to allow him some more independence it will help his self esteem as well as his feeling of acceptance from the other children.”

She added: “I would love for us to go to the park, long walks or fun days out. Or when we go shopping, instead of putting him in the trolley he could be independent. Especially as he’s getting older!”

To donate towards Arlie’s electric wheelchair, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/arlies-independence-giving-him-an-equal-chance.