MILES OF SMILES FOR MELISSA'S 21st

Melissa is celebrating her 21st birthday on the 16th July by wheeling herself to the summit of Latrigg fell in the Lake district in her Mountain Trike wheelchair, this will be Melissa’s first Wainwright and although to most it is considered a small fell to her it will be a huge mountain, it will be an Herculean challenge, one she will tackle with her usual determination and with a huge smile on her face. She will be accompanied on her trek by her mum and brother together with a couple of friends who will share a birthday celebration cake and give three cheers for the amazing achievement.

All are welcome to join us and celebrate Melissa being awesome since 2003

The challenge will support two charities the Lake District Foundation and the Great North Air Ambulance.

Melissa always gives 100% to every challenge she faces.

every aspect of her life is affected byAngelman Syndrome and everyday tasks which most of us take for granted are a challenge in themselves for her. But she faces life head on with a huge smile on her face and nothing seems to phase her, she is a real inspiration to all

Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a genetic condition which mainly affects the nervous system, this causes many problems for Melissa including Epilepsy, mobility problems, limited motor skills and the lack of a spoken voice. All of these affect every aspect of her life, she needs help with eating and toileting and will require 24 care for the rest of her life.

The challenge on the 16th July will be one of 21 that she will be attempting to make a big celebration of her 21st year. I am sure she will achieve everything she sets out to and will do so with huge pride and her positive attitude will be an inspiration to everyone and show that having a disability need not stop you from having amazing experiences and enjoying life as much as anyone else.