Rubie was born on 21st July weighing 5lb 15oz and was whisked away in a little rosti bag to the special care baby unit. There are different forms of Spina Bifida and Rubie has the most severe form called Myelomeningocele. Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect which happens at around 5 weeks gestation. There is a gap in the spine which should close around this time, however, with Spina Bifida it doesn’t. This results in the spinal cord and nerves growing outside of the body. This causes damage to the nerves and can affect different areas of the body. For Rubie, her condition affects her from the waist down.

The day after Rubie was born she had her first operation to close the gap in her spine and protect her spinal cord and the nerves. Rubie was also born with bilateral hip dysplasia, which meant both of her hips were dislocated, hyper extensive knees (her knees don’t bend the right way) and bilateral talipes (clubbed foot). Rubie also has bladder and bowel issues due to Spina Bifida. Rubie has had 11 operations so far, mainly on her hips, knees and feet and will need more in the future.

Because of her condition we have fundraised for different pieces of equipment for Rubie. Her first baby wheelchair cost over £1,000, her second wheelchair cost £2,800, her hand trike cost £3,200 and her most recent wheelchair cost over £4,000. We have been so lucky that people have been so generous and helped with funding these. Without her wheelchair, Rubie would have no independence, something that is so important to her.

Simon (SR Functional Fitness) has arranged 24 hours of back to back fitness classes on the 28th April with all funds raised going towards Rubie’s future and any equipment she may need. The equipment Rubie uses, like her wheelchair, is vital for maintaining her independence, her confidence and overall well-being. We are so grateful to Simon for organising this & for anyone who takes part, helps out and supports the cause ❤️.