Norwich: Bid to buy trike for boy with rare epilepsy

Charlie Hughes, five, was taken to hospital shortly after being born when he was suffering with infantile spasms and was diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy causing chaotic brain waves meaning he is unable to develop normally.

The condition also means Charlie is unable to walk as his core and leg muscles are not strong enough.

If not brought under control the condition is likely to develop into Lennox-Gastnaut Syndrome, which would mean Charlie would suffer from even more frequent seizures.

Friends and family are now hoping to raise the cash to buy a Tomcat Apprentice Arrow trike, which will allow him to get out of the house more and help to develop his muscles.

Doreen Cochrane, 75, who launched the fundraiser alongside Charlie's mum and dad Alison and Matt, said she wanted to help the youngster to see more of his surroundings.

She said: "I just wanted to see him get out and about and see the world.

"It would be great if we could help him to do that, it's a lot of money so I don't know if we'll be able to raise it but we'll have a good go.

"I hope we can get as many people to support what is a really great cause."

Ms Cochrane is holding a tombola and cake sale in St Stephens Square on Saturday, March 25, from 11am to 3pm, to help raise the funds.

Charlie's mum Alison said the trike would cost about £3,750 and would not only help her son's development but also give him the freedom to move about more.

She said: "Even though he's nearly six, Charlie's mentally about one because he is unable to develop like he normally would.

"The trike would help him to strengthen his legs and also make it much easier for him to get out and about."

The family have previously been campaigning for their son to be allowed medicinal cannabis in order to treat his condition.

To support the fund-raising contact Ms Cochrane on 07496 063894.