Imagine being born with a perfect brain, seeing the world as any able-bodied person, but being unable to move. Such is the case with people born with SMA - a rare genetic disorder that leaves those affected completely physically dependent on their carers.

Vinnie was born with type 1 SMA (spinal muscular atrophy), which is the most severe form, meaning he has widespread muscle weakness. Vinnie is tube-fed as he is too weak to swallow. He has difficulty breathing and needs the help of a ventilator for 16 hours a day to ensure he gets enough oxygen. His muscles are so weak that he struggles to move (although this little fighter tries his hardest to do so.) Vinnie cannot lift his head or limbs properly, and he cannot speak (as hard as he seems to be trying). His amazing mother Kelly nurses him 24-7. Over and above the usual dressing, bathing and nappy changing, she suctions secretions from his mouth, delivers his therapy exercises, carries him around, entertains him, fund-raises for him, keeps him company and does whatever she can to ensure she gives him the best life experience possible. Besides all this Kelly still finds the time to share her love with her little girl Kaydee and campaign for the SMA cause.

Vinnie now needs an electric wheelchair and sufficient funds to pay for ongoing physiotherapy that will enable him to achieve greater independence, to sit upright, and see the world from a different perspective. The electric wheelchair Vinnie needs costs in excess of £16000. His family are already doing all they can to raise the money needed for the chair, and all the treatement he needs to get stronger, and I'd like to help!

Vinnie has defied the odds and constantly surprises those around him. He is successfully weaning off his ventilator and continues to achieve new strength and movement goals like moving his legs better during hydrotherapy and gaining better head control in sitting. It was a privilege to meet Vinnie and witness his amazing determination.

I'm going to cycle 400 km across Cuba to help raise funds for Vinnie. I'm doing this because my uncle Jody spent 40 years in a wheelchair as a quadriplegic and my dear friend Renett had SMA and eventually died of breast cancer. They spent a lifetime trying to find the money to fund their independence. I know how hard it is. I have a choice to move, Vinnie does not. So I'm going to move for Vinnie and need your help to support this amazing little boy!