Hi everyone,

We are fundraising to buy privately a Smilla chair for our wonderful AJ at home.

AJ is six years old and lives with global developmental delay and epilepsy. He attends a SEN School, where he is in the profound learning difficulties class. We have been informed by our local disability social worker team that there is currently a long waiting list for an occupational therapist assessment, and that there is only one part-time occupational therapist covering the entire borough. Unfortunately, we have not been given any indication of how long the wait might be or where AJ is on the list.

AJ's medical needs are complex, and having the correct seating equipment is essential for his safety, posture, and ability to eat and engage at home. He has long outgrown his current high-street high chair, which he has used since he was six months old. We were previously advised by NHS that equipment could be requested as needed, but I have recently learned that once a child turns five, requests must be made through the social care team rather than the NHS.

At present, AJ has no appropriate postural or feeding chair at home, which poses significant challenges for his comfort and wellbeing. The recommended Schuchmann Smilla chair would provide the postural support he needs to sit and eat safely, while also supporting his development.

AJ struggles with safe and comfortable seating due to postural and sensory needs, and a standard chair simply doesn’t provide the support they require. The Smilla chair offers:

⭐ Adjustable postural support

⭐ Improved stability and comfort

⭐ Support for mealtimes, learning and everyday activities

⭐ A safe seat that grows with AJ

This chair will significantly improve AJ’s daily life at home.

Unfortunately, the cost is beyond what we can manage alone, and that’s why we’re reaching out for help.

As Christmas approaches, we’re asking friends and family who usually buy AJ a gift to consider donating towards their Smilla chair instead. This would be the most meaningful gift we could receive.

If you can contribute — or even just share this fundraiser — you’ll be helping give AJ the comfort, safety and independence they deserve.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. ❤️

Important Notes

Tree of Hope Allocation: 7.5% of all donations will go to Tree of Hope for core operating costs.

Use of Funds: If insufficient or surplus funds are raised, they will be used for AJ’s needs in accordance with Tree of Hope’s charitable objectives. Any funds that cannot be used for AJ will be reallocated to support Tree of Hope’s general charitable purposes.