SELFLESS teenagers have made the life of a severely disabled child a little brighter.
Six-year-old Maxwell Smith from Pulborough suffers from mitochondrial Tk2d, a rare genetic disorder rendering him unable to breathe or move without support.
But thanks to the fundraising efforts of National Citizen Service teenagers, led by Brinsbury College student Hollie Cheesman, he now has a soothing light projector installed in his home.
“It’s the first thing he sees as he wakes in the morning and it soothes him to sleep at night,” his father Peter said.
“Knowing that Hollie and her teammates organised events and volunteered a large part of their summer for Maxwell’s benefit is truly inspiring. With so many expenses to cover for Maxwell’s care, any extras to help stimulate and interest him are very welcome.”
Storrington teenager Hollie, 17, pictured right with Maxwell, raised almost £400 with her team by throwing a concert and selling merchandise.
“It was a challenge for me as I didn’t like speaking on the phone and it took in the region of 50 phone calls to organise all the activities,” she said.
“I made some great new friends and we all appreciated how lucky we were. I’m glad we have now given Maxwell a new experience to enjoy too.”
To help Maxwell and his family, visit ourmaxwell.org.
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