Beneficiaries

Brave Youngster moving forward

A disabled boy is getting a special trike thanks to the Chronicle’s Sunshine fund. Lewis McConnell, eight, has cerebral palsy and earlier this year had to have a hip construction surgery.

Lewis, of Cochrane Park, Newcastle, who also has epilepsy, had a number of metal plates and bolts fitted into his hip in March. But once these are removed he’ll be able to play on his new specially adapted trike, which will build up his strength and flexibility. His mum Andrea said: “It will have great benefits for Lewis both in getting him used to using his hips and in his physiotherapy. “Once he gets the metal taken out in October he will be able to really enjoy using it and we will be able to take him out on it properly. “He was very excited when he got the trike and it will make a huge difference to him. “He is a very cheerful little lad and he loves being out and about as mush as possible so it’s perfect for him.”

In 2002, the Chronicle told how Lewis starred in a documentary about Byker Stables where he enjoys horse riding. Following the programme, he had a special saddle made to support him while he rides. Sunshine Fund manager Jo Harris said: “Lewis has very limited movement and the new trike will enable him to have the luxury of some independent movement.” Lewis is just one of the dozens of children in our region who each year benefit from money raised for the Sunshine Fund by Chronicle readers and local businesses.

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