Fraser is a 27-year-old man who has had cerebral palsy since the age of 3. He is quadriplegic, however, with the aid of his Permobil wheelchair, is able to maintain a significant level of independence. Funded by Action for Kids, the purchase of the Permobil 4 years ago cost £27,000. To enable Fraser to continue to use the Permobil, it requires ongoing maintenance and extensive repairs in addition to insurance cover and warranty.

Fraser’s father, Frank is seriously ill, having suffered poor health for a number of years. Fraser’s mother, Fiona gave up a career as a dentist to care for Fraser 24 years ago. The family situation is now one where they simply cannot afford to pay for the additional costs related to the Permobil. The Fraser Imrie Trust Fund was set up in 1996 by a mutual friend, Lorna Barbour and me, Susan Begg. This has greatly helped with Fraser’s health related requirements over the years but the funds are now depleted. I hope to raise the sum of £5000 for the Trust Fund to give Fraser and his family security and peace of mind that, as the Permobil ages, there will be sufficient money to meet any costs incurred to maintain its safe use. I would be so grateful for any donations.

Fraser is my Godson and I have been friends with his mum since we were at school together in the 1970s.

Fraser was a healthy toddler when he contracted E-Coli 0157 shortly before his 3rd birthday. Initially affecting the gastro-intestinal tract, the bacterium caused Fraser to develop haemolytic uraemic syndrome and he became systemically very unwell, remaining in a critical condition for several weeks. It was truly heart-breaking to see such a young child so ill and to witness the anguish suffered by his parents and grandparents. Fraser pulled though from this dreadful illness, however was left with cerebral palsy and chronic kidney disease. In the intervening years, Fraser has suffered ongoing respiratory issues, not helped by scoliosis (a common development in children with cerebral palsy as a result of muscular imbalance around the spinal axis).

Fraser is a remarkable young man who has borne his condition with stoicism and dignity. He is so close to his family and has grown up supported by their love and care. The family is going through a very difficult period at present with father, Frank’s health a great cause for concern. I would be so appreciative of any donations to ease their worries.

Quite simply, Fraser’s Permobil is his lifeline. It allows him to maintain his independence and is essential to his physical and mental wellbeing. With the nudge of one finger, the Permobil permits Fraser to move around his family home and into the garden without having to rely on anyone else. Furthermore, he can recline in the chair or move fully supported into the standing position.

We take for granted the ability to sit, lie or stand at will, unaware of the implications of being unable to do so. Having the option to change position as desired in the Permobil affords Fraser many health benefits (improved circulation and maintained bone density, pressure area relief, improved respiratory, bladder and gastro-intestinal function). Moreover, spending periods in the reclined position can aid Fraser’s breathing, facilitating improved lung expansion. He has used a standing wheelchair for the past 17 years and Fiona is certain this has quite literally kept him out of hospital. Another benefit is being able to choose between a sitting and standing position for social interaction. ….and, of course, and probably most importantly for Fraser, the robust Permobil allows him to do what he loves the most – getting out and about with his family, friends and carers in the fresh air and enjoying the nature around him.

Without the Permobil, Fraser’s quality of life, health and wellbeing would be greatly diminished. Raising money to fund the continued safe use of the Permobil is crucial. Please help Fraser to keep his independence and give a donation. Thank you so much. Susan