Riley's All-Stars has been set up to raise money to help support Riley Whatley's Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1 journey.

At 4 months old, Riley was diagnosed with SMA Type 1; the most severe form of SMA, with the worst impacts and life expectancy.

SMA is a genetic neuromuscular condition which causes muscle wastage and weakness, which results in a lack of movement and difficulty in breathing, swallowing and walking. It causes little movement in the head, neck and arms.

SMA can also cause respiratory issues which can make dealing with simple colds and infections, which most people could normally deal with, difficult for Riley and can often lead to hospital admissions.

Whilst these hospital admissions have significantly reduced over the years, the focus is now to provide Riley with the equipment he needs to be able to live and gain even the slightest bit of independence.

Currently, Riley uses a feeding peg and has multiple daily medications to help his body function, which will hopefully continue to prolong his life. He uses a respiratory machine when he sleeps to help him breath and has chest physio 3 times a day to clear his chest and help him breathe. He also needs to have regular suctions to clear his nose and throat throughout the day.

However, much of his day to day equipment is not funded by the NHS, and has to be paid for by Riley's family.

We will be hosting a number of events over the next year to raise money for basic equipment and to help improve Riley's quality of life. This may include wheelchairs, hoists and hydrotherapy, alongside helping Riley to live life to the fullest. We are also aiming to donate some of the money to SMA UK, to help support their ongoing research and help to find a cure.