Could anyone imagine what it's like to put your lively toddler to bed and the next morning find him paralyzed from waist down?

Well, this is exactly what happened to little Riley (age 2) last January.
He was initially sent home from hospital when doctors were unable to find the cause of the paralysis. He was then later diagnosed with EV D68 and warned that he may be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

Very little is known about this type of virus and it's devastating effects.This lack of knowledge, limits a lot of options and nearly a year on, Riley has only gained the use of one leg - the other isn't looking good, it's a lot smaller and his foot is starting to deform.
Stokke have made a brace which allows him to walk but without it he can't. He has gained some feeling back but the nerves don't talk to the muscle due to the damage. Nerve cells take a lifetime to regenerate which leaves Riley disabled and it's now a case of just getting on with life.

The hardest thing for the family is to watch Riley's twin brother run circles around him when all he wants to do is the same, but he can't.
We are looking to raise funds for a hand propelled bike/trike for Riley, to get him out and about and enjoying the 'normal' toddler activities with his twin brother.

Riley's story has struck a chord with all of the members of Islwyn Happy Hackers. We will be partaking in a fancy dress Christmas horse ride to raise money but will need additional contributions if we are to reach our goal.

This is where we need to reach out and ask for some support. His family may never be able to offer this to him because it's such an expensive item and it's vital for many reasons for him to have something now to support his Physio, wellbeing and confidence to continue to grow into the happy little boy that he is.

Thanks for reading <3

Media coverage:

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/family-toddler-who-woke-up-7260511