Family 'blown away' by Melton community's support for little Archie
The mother of a little boy who is unable to walk without assistance says she has been ‘blown away’ by the support of the Melton Mowbray community since we featured the family in the paper last month.
Archie Thompson, who is two, needs specialised physiotherapy to help correct his balance and co-ordination and to help him walk independently.
Parents Joel and Hannah appealed for fundraising support to assist them in paying the £6,000 it will cost to get Archie treated at the NAPA Centre in London, with an individualised intensive therapy programme.
And dozens of local businesses inundated the family with offers of prizes which are now being offered in a special draw and donations were also made to his online fundraising page.
Hannah told the Melton Times: “We are absolutely blown away by the support we have received in the past few weeks, from family, friends, and strangers alike.
"It has really shown us how much good is in the world, specifically the Melton Mowbray community.
“There are not enough words to express the gratitude we have for each of the 33 incredible local businesses that have taken time out of their day to read Archie’s story and then be so kind and generous to donate a prize for our raffle.”
Prizes for the raffle include family passes at Twinlakes theme park, afternoon tea for two at The Grange, film tickets at The Regal, a full car service, beer from Round Corner Brewing, vouchers to spend at local shops, local Indian restaurant meals and a children’s lesson at Kathryn Saunby Art Studio, among many others.
Hannah added: “We have booked in for a tour of London’s NAPA centre in mid-July and are waiting for our application to be approved for the intensive physiotherapy programme for later in the year.
“This fundraising campaign will hopefully prove life changing for Archie and it would not be possible without those who have stood by us and believed in him.
"So, thank you from the bottom of our hearts to all involved.”
It costs a £2 donation for an entry to the draw or £5 for three entries – deadline is Tuesday June 30 and you must be 18.
Winners will be drawn from Wednesday July 1, with five winners selected each day.
Go to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/archies-first-steps to enter.