Today, on Rupert’s first birthday and in memory of his identical twin George, we are launching a Trust in his name –www.IamRupert.co.uk

Rupert has quadriplegic cerebral palsy with dystonia, the most severe form of cerebral palsy. In addition, he is on epilepsy medication and is at risk of seizures.

So much is still unknown about his condition and how it will impact upon him. He may never walk or talk. He may have limited vision. He may not be able to carry out other basic motor functions and he may also be cognitively affected. We simply don't know. All of this will unfold as he grows and develops in the coming months and years.

As he turns one, we are asking for your help to give Rupert the best possible chance to achieve all that is possible for him in the years to come. He needs ongoing, specialist care, treatments and therapies, many of which are not available through the NHS or which have huge waiting lists. Early interventions now, with physiotherapy, speech therapy and play therapy, as well as from specialist carers, can make a huge difference to what he will be able to achieve in later life.

However, all of this costs a great deal of money, which is why we have set up www.IamRupert.co.uk This Trust will be run by independent Trustees and has its own bank account. Every single penny raised will be used wisely on treatments, equipment and other support and resources that we cannot access through the NHS.

The best advice we were given after Rupert was born is that whatever happens, "he will be Rupert". If he could, we are quite sure that he would himself be shouting from the roof tops "I am Rupert, watch me go."

Today, we are asking for your help in supporting Rupert to achieve all that is possible for him in the years to come.

With all our hearts, thank you.