THE family of an Otley boy with a rare health condition are backing an appeal to provide specialist equipment for children with disabilities.

One-year-old Cory Downes-Holroyd has mitochondrial disease, an incurable condition that affects his joints, body control, eating and breathing.

Last year Cory’s mum, Sherri Downes, desperately needed a specialist pushchair so she could take him out safely – but was turned down when she asked the statutory services for help.

Luckily, Sherri was put in contact with children’s disability charity Newlife Foundation, which got her the equipment within days.

Keen to support others in the region facing similar challenges, the charity is launching its Newlife West Yorkshire Fund to help provide equipment to anyone under 19 who has a significant disability.

Sherri, who is urging local people to get behind the fund, says the assistance she received has made a huge difference to her family.

She said: “Having the right equipment means that we are able to go out more as a family and I am also able to take my five-year-old son, Austin, out to parks without the worry of it being too much for Cory.

“The buggy faces towards me so I can keep a close eye on him. It also has the postural support he needs, and will accommodate his suctioning equipment, feed and emergency bags, and potentially oxygen.”

Cory’s buggy was provided through Newlife’s emergency equipment loan service, Just Can’t Wait, with the charity later working with wheelchair services to make the arrangement permanent.

A spokesman for Newlife said: “There are currently nine children with disabilities or a terminal illness in West Yorkshire who need help to get the specialist equipment that will really change their lives.

“That’s why we are launching the Newlife West Yorkshire Fund at newlifecharity.co.uk/westyorkshire.

“Every penny donated or fundraised here is guaranteed to support vulnerable families in the county.

“Special disability equipment, including wheelchairs, walkers, beds, seating and communication aids, can help give children independence, keep them safe, to relieve pain and to overcome challenges.”