A gift that keeps on giving for Cody

Cody is seven-years-old, living in the Isle of Wight with his mum, Emma, and dad, Brian. Cody’s parents recently used their grant from Family Fund to purchase an annual pass at Tapnell Farm Park, a gift that keeps on giving for Cody, and one his parents would’ve struggled to afford without Family Fund’s support. Emma is Cody’s main carer. We caught up with her to see how the Family Fund grant helped

Tell us about Cody 

“Cody loves the outdoors and anything that involves jumping around and burning energy. Cody has autism, so it is good for regulating his moods. He loves riding his bike, going to the beach and is very smart, especially with reading and writing.

“Because Cody is autistic, he can struggle socially and can’t do too much at once. Some days, he will be happy to go into public with me, but others he likes to stay at home and feel safe. At school, Cody can struggle to fit in with other pupils. I tend to watch him play alongside them, rather than with them. Cody sometimes wears headphones in public, to block loud noises which can trigger him.

“A few years ago, my physical and mental health really declined. It was a very tough time, but Cody saw me through that period. My focus was on him, and making him happy, which helped to pull me through. Despite everything that was happening, I was still Cody’s mum.”

What is it like being Cody’s mum? 

“Cody is very affectionate, loving and creative. But it is hard being a mum to a child with additional needs, especially when you see your child not being invited to birthday parties, or you’re constantly blocking out the comments and rude remarks in public.”

“You become very strong. Cody asked me once, “Am I stupid?” I told him, “No. You’re very smart Cody, and you can achieve anything”. When he tells me he loves me, and the professionals remind me that I’m doing a good job, it makes it worth it.”

What support have you received from Family Fund? 

“We have received a trampoline from Family Fund. It helps Cody self-regulate, especially when he is frustrated. We couldn’t have afforded this without Family Fund.

“Recently we also received a days out grant. We used it to purchase an annual pass to Tapnell Farm Park. This has been life-changing for us: We’d have to save up for months to be able to afford it without Family Fund. It bonds us as a family whenever we go. It’s teaching Cody social skills, and he’s able to express himself when he plays and have fun. We wouldn’t have had this opportunity without Family Fund.”

“When we set off home, Cody always tells us how much fun he had. It’s a reminder to me that I am doing a good job, I am doing it right.”