A four-year-old boy with spina bifida and hydrocephalus has been gifted a range of soft play equipment from children’s charity, Simon’s Heroes, to enable him to take part in outdoor activities with his siblings.
Casey Hall from Dordon is wheelchair bound, a result of his condition where the spinal cord does not develop properly in the womb, causing a gap in the spine. Spina bifida can cause a wide range of symptoms, including problems with the bladder and bowel, movement and hydrocephalus (excess fluid on the brain), all of which Casey endures. As a result, he is unable to take part in many of the activities with his siblings and often feels left out.
“Casey desperately wanted to join his siblings playing in our garden but unfortunately, our garden isn’t suitable as it is largely mud and grass. We wanted to make an outdoor play area for him so that he could feel like he is a part of play time with his brothers and sister,” said his mum Laura. “The kids go off and play and Casey wants to do the same things but he can’t.”
Casey has 4 siblings, a twin brother, Cameron, sister Sophie (10), and big brothers Liam (12) and Josh (16) who help mum Laura look after him. He attends Birchwood Primary School in Dordon where he enjoys outdoor playtime with his friends. He also benefits from regular physiotherapy and home visits from the community paediatrician.
Simon’s Heroes purchased Casey several soft play mats, as well as soft play shapes and a slide and steps. The charity also gifted Casey and his family tickets to enjoy a family day out at Twycross Zoo.
“Casey hasn’t stopped playing with the shapes since they arrived! It is already making such a positive difference to family life. The equipment is an amazing addition to the garden; he can be involved and stay safe and can play more independently. I really can’t thank you enough! We are all looking forward to our family day out too!”
Author: C Abbott.
