Getting out and about with a lease car from Family Fund Mobility Support
Two-year-old Parker was born with Down’s Syndrome, struggling to breathe and swallow properly. Dad Peter said: “He had operations to loosen his airways, but it didn’t do much. Whilst he was in neonatal care, Claire nearly died from a huge haemorrhage. It was a really traumatic time.
The family received help form Family Fund Mobility Support (FFMS) programme – so they had a car to transport all the equipment Parker needs:
“We spent months in and out of hospital with Parker. He was changed from one feeding tube to another, his medications were being altered, or he was seeing the paediatrician or other consultants.
“Up until very recently, he has been in hospital nearly every other week with chest infections and breathing difficulties.
“Claire is at home with Parker full time as his carer. I’ve dropped my hours to part time so I can be home more to help too. It wouldn’t be feasible for us to both work. Parker sleeps very little, and we’re both constantly tired.”
Making life easier
“Family Fund helped us. When Parker was around eight months, they gave us a lease for a car. This changed our lives. It meant we could suddenly do things as a family that we couldn’t before.
“Going on the bus is impossible with all Parker’s equipment. We could get to his hospital appointments easier, without relying on taxis, ambulances or lifts.”
“We had space in our car to store all of Parker’s feeding equipment, his bottles, and everything he needs.
“Parker is the happiest child you could possibly meet. He’s always smiling, wanting to learn and dancing. He is always wanting to be on the go.
“The car has allowed us to take Parker and Layla to places, like the seaside, and enjoy it as a family.
“We watch Layla and Parker play in the sand, and splash in the sea together. It’s good to be able to leave our equipment in the car safely, knowing we don’t have to take it to the beach.”