Beneficiaries

Technological Whiz

Joseph Douglas, who suffers from autistic spectrum disorder, is able to concentrate on homework and surf the net, thanks to the Sunshine Fund.

A few years ago, Joseph received a computer from the Sunshine Fund, but it had a virus, making it slow and difficult to use. Joseph was becoming frustrated with it.

Joseph’s father, John, told us that Joseph’s condition means he suffers language and communication difficulties. He has little spoken language, which can often lead to “challenging behaviour” , but John also told us that Joseph is ‘a bit of a technology whizz’.

As well as having educational and play benefits computers also help children with autism to have visual stimulation, and can have a calming influence.

Because the Sunshine Fund committee understood what a difference having a computer meant to this child and his family, they awarded a grant to buy a computer, printer and scanner.

John told us that the Sunshine Fund is a “great charity” and he believes in putting something back into an organisation, which has helped him and his family so much.

John has given up his time in many ways to support the Sunshine Fund. His company help out with the annual Sunshine Run, he attends the annual Sunflower Ball with his wife, and he recorded a short film for the Sunshine Fund in which he describes the feelings and emotions involved in discovering your child is disabled.

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