Fundraiser set up for 'loving little boy' from Tipperary facing rare genetic condition

A fundraising campaign has been launched to help four-year-old Dylan, a young boy from Nenagh living with a rare genetic condition, raise vital funds towards an accessible wheelchair van.

Dylan faces both intellectual and physical challenges as a result of his condition, but despite the difficulties he encounters in everyday life, he is described by his family as a happy and loving little boy who brings enormous joy to those around him.

Dylan loves cuddles, music and, above all, spending time with his family.

Unable to walk, Dylan is a wheelchair user and requires regular medical care and therapy. He attends frequent hospital appointments and is under the care of a number of doctors, physicians and physiotherapists. His family regularly travel to appointments and therapies in both Limerick and Dublin, often on a weekly basis.

His grandparents also play a hugely important role in his life and care for him every second week.

However, as Dylan has grown older and bigger, travelling has become increasingly challenging for the family. Safely lifting Dylan, his wheelchair and the specialist equipment he requires in and out of a standard car has become increasingly difficult for both his parents and grandparents.

Dylan relies on a range of specialist equipment as part of his everyday care, including his wheelchair, a Leckey chair, standing frame, specialist chair and special buggy.

Transporting Dylan and all of the equipment he needs has consequently become a major challenge in a regular vehicle.

While the family have managed up until now, Dylan's continued growth means that safely getting him and his equipment in and out of a car is becoming increasingly difficult.

The family have now reached the point where an accessible vehicle is no longer simply a matter of convenience, but a necessity for Dylan and his day-to-day life.

A wheelchair-accessible van would allow Dylan to travel safely and comfortably to his hospital appointments and therapies, while also making it possible for him to continue enjoying family visits, outings and time with those closest to him.

The fundraising campaign aims to help the family meet the significant cost of purchasing a suitable accessible van.

The family acknowledge the financial pressures facing many people at present and say they are incredibly grateful for any support they receive, regardless of the amount.

For those who may not be in a position to donate, the family are also appealing to people to share Dylan's story and help spread awareness of the fundraising campaign.

For Dylan and his family, the hope is that the campaign will ultimately provide them with safe and suitable transport, making a significant difference to their everyday lives and allowing Dylan to travel without the physical difficulties they currently face.

The family have expressed their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has taken the time to read Dylan's story and to those who have supported the campaign through donations, shares and messages of kindness.

You can donate at the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-get-dylan-the-accessible-transport-that-he-needs?cp_src=d