SIX-YEAR-old Elsie couldn’t stop smiling as she climbed onto her new Race Runner for the first time, a life-changing mobility aid that will help her enjoy greater independence and freedom.
Elsie lives with a CASK gene variation and Global Developmental Delay (GDD), conditions that affect her balance, coordination, endurance and motor skills.
Despite these challenges, she is a determined, energetic and social young girl who loves being active and spending time with family and friends.
Until now, her physical limitations have made it difficult to join in many of the activities other children her age enjoy. Her new Race Runner, a specially designed mobility aid, will allow her to walk, run and take part in sport and recreation with greater confidence and independence.
The nearly $8,000 Race Runner was made possible through a collaborative effort by the Lions Clubs of Soldiers Point, Tilligerry, Medowie and Tea Gardens, which together funded half the cost.
The remaining amount was generously provided by the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation.
“This is a wonderful example of Lions working together to make a real difference in the life of a local child,” said James Enraght-Moony, President of the Lions Club of Soldiers Point.
“The joy on Elsie’s face reminds us why Lions serve. By combining our resources and partnering with the Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation, we’ve been able to provide equipment that will have a lasting impact on her quality of life.”
For Elsie and her family, the Race Runner represents far more than a piece of equipment.
“As parents we are very grateful for Lions combining several clubs’ funding along with the ALCMF to make this possible,” said Elsie’s motherTanya Roy.
“It opens the door to new experiences, greater independence and the chance to participate more fully in the activities she loves, all made possible through the generosity and collaboration of local Lions volunteers.”
By Jacie WHITFIELD
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
