George has Spinal Muscular Atrophy type 2 (SMA). Amongst other things, this means that George will never be able to walk. SMA currently has no cure.

George and Harry were born on 28th January 2011. They were both perfect. As they grew, George and Harry passed all their checks and they both met each developmental milestone. They both learnt to lift their heads, to smile and giggle, to roll over, to sit and start to become mobile. Then Harry learnt to stand and walk, but George never has.

Just before their first birthday, George was diagnosed with SMA Type 2, something we had never heard of before. We were later shocked to discover it was an incurable genetic condition and we were both carriers. We now know that 1 in 40 people unknowingly carry the faulty gene that causes SMA.

George, and others with SMA, show a generalised weakness and wasting of the muscles. George has regular physiotherapy, hippotherapy and hydrotherapy to maintain his muscle strength where possible. For his mobility George uses a custom made powerchair and also a specialist lightweight manual wheelchair. He also uses various pieces of orthotic equipment to help him maintain a good sitting position and, with the help of a frame and leg supports, a standing position.

George is an extremely happy and chatty boy with incredible determination. However, for George to do many things he needs specialised equipment which is not available through the NHS. This equipment is all vital for his comfort and independence.

As George grows, he will require further specialist equipment, and his current equipment will also need to be upgraded and replaced. Therefore we need to continually fundraise for George so that he can lead as full a life as possible, and keep up with Harry of course!

For more information please visit www.aboutgeorge.co.uk

Thank you