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A disabled boy who was told he may never walk is defying doctors to take part in his own charity walking event. Rhys Taylor will try to walk one mile alongside family and friends to help raise funds for his new specially adapted wheelchair.
Six year old Rhys was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome in 2010, and doctors warned that he may never walk. But the brave boy is determined to do his bit for the fundraising challenge.
Angelham Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that only affects around 1 in 16,000 people.
Determination
Determined Rhys has learned to walk with a mobility aid but relies on his wheelchair for days out and holidays. But his current chair isn’t suitable for the outdoor activities he longs to do. His specially adapted wheelchair will allow him to visit the beach and can even be used for outdoor activities like snowboarding.
Mum Sheri said: “At the minute we’re really restricted because the chair he has is great for going to school or the shops everyday but it’s so restrictive when we try and go on family walks or family holidays, going to the beach is a nightmare because obviously wheelchairs don’t work in the sand but this new wheelchair is amazing and can be taken anywhere. It can be used on the beach and has attachments so you can do things like snowboarding or go on the snow.
“He loves being outdoors, it’s amazing watching his face light up and he has the biggest smile on his face you can imagine, he’s inspiring.”
Inspiring
Sheri has been helping him train and will be there to support him as he completes his mile.
Sheri said: “Rhys isn’t able to walk unaided so he’ll be using his walker but he’s going to try and walk his first mile. He’s been working so hard to get where he is and now he’s helping to raise money himself. We’ve taken him on walks every weekend but he’s never reached a mile.”
“He loves being outdoors, it’s amazing watching his face light up and he has the biggest smile on his face you can imagine, he’s inspiring.”
To read more about Rhys’ story or make a donation click here
