Raise for Robin: family hopes new wheelchair will transform two-year-old’s life

A fundraiser has been launched to help transform the life of a young boy in Westbury. 

Robin Russell was born at just 27 weeks and, as a result of complications during his early arrival, suffered brain damage which led to a diagnosis of severe cerebral palsy. 

Now two-and-a-half, Robin is unable to sit, crawl or walk independently. While his peers explore the world on their own terms, he experiences life very differently. 

His mum, Jazz, and dad, Ash, have now launched a fundraiser in a bid to buy Robin a £5,000 specialist manual wheelchair which he has tried out. 

They hope it could build his self-confidence and independence. So far, they have raised £3,000. 

Jazz, a full-time carer for Robin, said, “Robin is so excited for his wheelchair. He will love going to the park, visiting his friends and also just starting to learn how to move independently and get his own strawberry doughnuts in the shop. 

“He is such a determined and motivated little boy. As soon as he sat in the demo wheelchair, he was trying to move it!” 

Robin also needs ongoing intensive therapies including physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and speech and language support. 

As well as raising £5,000 for the wheelchair, the Russells hope to raise the same amount to help pay for these additional therapies. 

Jazz and Ash added, “We want to express our utmost gratitude and thanks to all the people who have contributed to Robin’s journey. 

“It is truly making an enormous difference to his life and will allow him to explore the world around us like any other toddler his age. 

“Thank you for believing in Robin and walking this journey with us.” 

Robin’s uncle, Jamie, will also take on the Bournemouth Half Marathon in October to raise money for the fundraiser, and many family members and friends have donated to the cause. 

To donate, go to https://gofund.me/f03f6d28