THE parents of a 12-year-old girl with cerebral palsy are urging the public to get behind a charity’s 20th anniversary campaign after it supported their daughter.
Susanna Petersburska from Haresfinch was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that stiffens the muscles and restricts mobility, and at the age of four she became a wheelchair user. Her parents Monika and Andrzey heard about Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR), an operation which was shown to improve walking patterns and functional mobility.
However, in 2011, this was not available on the NHS and was only available in the United States for upwards of £60,000. Luckily, Monika and Andrzey were told about Caudwell Children, who agreed to support the family.
“They were amazing,” said Andrzey. “They helped coordinate a fundraising campaign for Susanna and got the local media behind our appeal which highlighted the support that we were also getting from the restaurant chain Frankie and Benny’s.
“They also funded some of the travel and subsistence costs to and from the United States.”
Susanna and her sister Maja, 15
Following the surgery Susanna’s condition improved dramatically. Susanna has gone on to become a talented swimmer and before the coronavirus outbreak was taking to the pool three times a week at Prescot Swimming Club.
Monika said: "We can’t thank Caudwell Children enough for all their support it’s had a life-changing effect on our daughter,” exclaimed Monika. “I’d encourage the public to get behind the charity’s #Team20 campaign.
“I’d urge people to get involved in any way as even a small amount will contribute in helping families, like ours, who desperately needed support.”
Trudi Beswick, CEO of Caudwell Children, added: “It only seems like yesterday when we agreed to support Susanna. She’s defied the odds over the years and it’s wonderful to see how she’s developed both academically and physically, through her swimming.
“With the public’s help we can support even more disabled children and young people like Susanna.”
The charity has set up a series of virtual events that people can take part in during the outbreak. To take part go to caudwellchildren.com/team20/
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here