Angling for help for boy's life-changing care

On Saturday, May 7, Alders Farm Fishery in Great Brickhill will open its gates for the second Fish for Freddie Family Fun Day.

The annual fundraising event is in aid of Freddie Gray, of Gemini Close, who at just 18 months was diagnosed with Spastic Diaplegia Cerebral Palsy.

Freddie was born in December 2011 at just 28 weeks weighing 2.12lb. At birth he suffered life-threatening complications which saw him face two blood transfusions at just a few weeks old.

This year, money raised from the fun day will go towards providing life changing care and physiotherapy following a complex SDR operation.

Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is an operation used to reduce spasticity (muscle stiffness) in cerebral palsy, and if successful will increase Freddie’s ability to walk and move unaided.

SDR is currently not available on the NHS and procedures take place on a self-funding basis, making this year’s fundraiser more important than ever.

Freddie’s mother, Katie, said: “Freddie has the best personality, he is such a happy boy and not a lot fazes him.

“For Freddie every day is fun, physio is playing, and to wear his splints he thinks they are just a cool accessory that he puts on every day.

“We believe the SDR operation will have a hugely positive impact on Freddie’s life, and are grateful for any support we receive.”

During the event there will be fishing tuition for children as well as other fun and games throughout the day including face painting, a bouncy castle and soft play, name the lambs, raffles and tombola stands and a BBQ. Doors open at 11am until 3pm.

For more information on the Fish for Freddie day or to donate visit: www.facebook.com/fishforfreddie