A DISABLED youngster will be walking tall in the near future after being handed specialist equipment that has allowed her to take her first steps.
Four-year-old Ruby Hale has Kleefstra Syndrome, which can result in severe chest infections and heart defects, as well as a number of other complications.
She is now able to walk thanks to the £2,120 equipment paid for by the charity partnership between Midlands Co-operative Society and Staffordshire-based Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children.
Mother Debbie Harvey, of Main Road, Anslow, said: “Because of a rare genetic chromosomal abnormality, Ruby has development delay and really low muscle tone. The particular design of walker that is most suitable for her has a seat which allows her weight to be supported while her legs are free to encourage her to learn to walk.”
Ruby has already trialled the £2,120 equipment – and managed to take a few steps with it.
She added: “We are confident it will make a massive difference once Ruby understands what to do and how it will help her mobility.”
It will be used around the family home in Anslow, for trips out and at the nursery Ruby attends at Fountains School, in Bitham Lane, Stretton.
Her mother said: “We want to push her to walk so she doesn’t have to rely on a wheelchair for all her mobility needs.”
Newlife is Midlands Co-operative’s staff-elected charity.
Dave Abberley, manager of Midlands Co-operative, in Stretton, said: “Our four Burton food stores are at the heart of the community and we are delighted to have been able to make such a difference to Ruby and her family.
“I would like to say a big thank you to all of our customers and friends who have helped us achieve this.”
Newlife fund-raising manager Nora Smith said: “We continue to be amazed by – and extremely grateful for – the continued support of the Midlands Co-operative.”
