Improve Dayna's Quality of Life: Fund an Innowalk
Donation protected
Hello, my name is Niamh and I am raising funds for my 16-year-old cousin, Dayna, to make sure that she gets an Innowalk. This will be a life changing piece of equipment for her as Dayna has various complex syndromes, such as Mitochondrial Disorder - Complex 3. There is also several elements that match Bjornstad Syndrome (as diagnosed by Professor Geoff Woods at Addenbrookes Hospital). This causes challenges that affect every part of her daily life. For example, she is non-verbal, unable to walk, and is fully dependent on her parents for her care. Additionally, she experiences epilepsy, is gastrostomy-fed and deals with gastroesophageal reflux and constipation, which further impacts her comfort. Despite all of this, Dayna is constantly smiling and bringing joy to everyone around her.
Recently, Dayna had the chance to trial an Innowalk, a motorised device that helps people who cannot walk experience the benefits of movement. One way that Dayna shows that she is happy is by rocking, which she constantly does when she is in the Innowalk.
As well as making her happy, the impact of the device has been transformative for Dayna’s health. Therefore, it is vital that she is able to have her own Innowalk, so that she can continue to experience the benefits listed below.
Benefits of the Innowalk for Dayna's Condition
During her trial with the Innowalk, Dayna experienced life-changing improvements in both her health and daily comfort:
- Improved Bowel Movements and Reflux: The gentle movement provided by the Innowalk has helped alleviate Dayna’s constipation, leading to more regular bowel movements and reduced reflux. This has dramatically improved her quality of life and overall comfort.
- Sensory Stimulation: Dayna has complex sensory needs due to her underlying condition. The Innowalk’s continuous movement satisfies Dayna’s need for motion, something she struggles with in static standing frames or specialised seating.
- Better Sleep: Increased physical activity has led to improved sleep patterns for Dayna, a significant benefit for her as she has more energy throughout the day.
- Easier Care at Home: The Innowalk allows Dayna to be positioned in sitting before moving to a standing position, making transfers easier for her parents. This is far more manageable than her current standing frame, which requires more support and time.
Despite the life-changing benefits Dayna has experienced, the Innowalk is not covered by healthcare funding, and it comes with a substantial cost. All funds raised will go towards the Innowalk and the necessary accessories that Dayna needs.
By donating, you’ll help improve Dayna’s mobility, support her overall fitness and respiratory health, and bring long-lasting comfort to her daily life. Any contributions will help in making a huge difference to Dayna’s life.
Thank you for reading, and please share this fundraiser.
Fundraising team (3)
Niamh Canning
Organizer
Darren Fitzgerald
Beneficiary
Darren Fitzgerald
Team member