Meningitis Now's Rebuilding Futures Fund supports Leo
The latest recipient of our Rebuilding Futures Fund support is 3-year-old Leo, who has received therapy equipment to help him work towards achieving independent movement
Little Leo, from West Linton in the Scottish Borders, was just a few months old when he contracted meningitis in February 2016. The disease left him with cerebral palsy and other challenges, which have significantly delayed his motor development.
Since being discharged from hospital Leo has been under the care of NHS Borders Paediatric Physiotherapy.
“Therapy plays a large part in his life and his parents are very on board with doing all they can to ensure that he gets the best chance of independent life,” they said.
Therapy activities
Mum Claire had requested equipment through our Rebuilding Futures Fund to use at home to help them carry out therapy activities. This included a wedge that can be used to position Leo to allow a stretch of his hamstring and leg muscles, which will prepare him for movement. It can also be used to improve movement in the left side of his body.
The award also included a bench suitable for upper limb propping when sitting on the wedge and to perch on, to develop increased weight through Leo’s lower limbs in preparation for independent standing.
Paediatric Physiotherapist Kaye Gray said: “After a stormy start, Leo is now in a position to really get going with therapy and we are keen that he is given every opportunity to develop skills.
Independent movement
“The equipment will allow Leo’s parents to carry out a physiotherapy led programme of activities which will assist him in achieving independent movement.
“He has just achieved independent sitting and we are aiming for him to improve in standing and progress to walking.”
Claire added: “This award has made a big difference. The equipment arrived with no drama or hassle and Leo has been able to build on his physio techniques to develop and improve his mobility.
“In just the short time he’s had it Leo can now go from the floor to sitting unaided – he’s improved his core strength.”
Positive impact
Meningitis Now Support Services Manager Cheryl Brown said: “We know that life after meningitis can be tough and we’re so pleased to hear that Leo is benefiting from this specialist equipment and that it is having such a positive impact – it just goes to show what can be achieved through even a modest investment.
“We’re always on the lookout for ways our Rebuilding Futures Fund can make a difference to those living with the impact of meningitis – please get in touch if you think you or someone you know would benefit from the Fund.”
The Rebuilding Futures Fund provides financial, practical and emotional support for people of all ages affected by meningitis.
It comprises four separate areas – Health & Wellbeing, Opportunities, Bereavement, and Specialist Equipment. Each area provides funding towards different types of support, but they are all designed to help people rebuild their futures with hope and confidence.
