Fantastic new wheelchair has given my Connor the freedom he loves (From St Helens Star)

Fantastic new wheelchair has given my Connor the freedom he loves

8:00am Friday 12th October 2012 in News By Stephen Mather, Senior reporter

BRAVE Connor Marsden’s life has been transformed thanks to a new wheelchair, which has given him a real sense of independence, says his delighted mum Cath.

For the brave 15-year-old, the simplest of tasks can be virtually impossible due to the severe nature of his skin condition, which leaves his skin blistered and sore at the slightest touch.

Connor, from Blackbrook, suffers from the painful genetic disorder Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), meaning his movement is severely restricted. Swathed in bandages, his delicate skin must be protected at all times.

But thanks to the efforts of members of the Masonic Lodges of St Helens and Prescot, he has recently taken delivery of a brand new chair.

Mum Cath, 48, said: “He loves it. It’s given him much more independence. He will go out and about in it and I am over the moon.

“Now he can do his own thing. The chair is fantastic. He can alter the level, so when he goes watching rugby, he can raise himself up.

“We went to the arcades in Blackpool and he really enjoyed himself. His quality of life is so much different and feels better in himself. We should have got one a long time ago.”

The Lodges have raised around £20,000 for the charity Debra, which helps those affected by EB, either directly or indirectly.

Tony Eckersall, Regional Fundraising Manager for the charity said: “Connor was in need of an electric wheelchair to give him the freedom that we all take so much for granted. I am pleased that part of the funds raised by the Freemasons has been used to purchase this fantastic item.”

Anyone wishing to know more about Debra is asked to call Tony Eckersall on 0161 286 5340 or 07786 575512.