Three year old Phoebe Kenyon, who has a rare neurological disorder, has inspired fundraising efforts from schools, local businesses and solicitors in Preston.
Phoebe suffers from Moebius Syndrome, a disorder that causes paralysis to the face and affects the cranial nerves.
Phoebe’s condition also causes development delay and muscle problems so she needs help with learning life skills including sitting, standing, walking, eating and communication.
She has been attending The Legacy Rainbow House for the past year and has shown real improvements with help from the centre which works with children with disabilities, brain injuries and life limiting conditions.
Phoebe’s family started to raise money for The Legacy Rainbow House after there was a leap in demand for the charity’s specialist expertise and more money was needed to meet future needs.
Every family who currently visit The Legacy Rainbow House was asked to raise £3,000 and Phoebe’s family managed to raise an amazing £13,500.
Phoebe’s mum Lyndsay Hornby said: “The services offered by The Legacy Rainbow House are just unique and exceptional.
“Rainbow House has been a lifeline to us as a family. The thought of Phoebe not having access to Rainbow House was a frightening one as I knew that her progress would be hampered without it.
“Not only have they helped Phoebe reach significant milestones, but they have also offered so much guidance and support to me over the past year.
“In particular, we would like to thank the members of the Preston South Rotary Club who kindly donated £1,500. In addition, local schools supported Phoebe’s Appeal with a generous donation including Lostock Hall Academy, where Phoebe’s sister Caitlin attends, and Lostock Hall Community Primary School who held a ‘Dress as Rainbows Day’ and raised a substantial amount. Phoebe is due to start in the reception class there in September.
“We also want to thank Ye Olde Original Withy Trees who raised over £1,200, Forbes Solicitors who showed massive support by holding a ‘dress down day’ throughout their North West offices and Playdor Nursery in Chorley who held a ‘dress as rainbows day.’
“Friends of the family, Lindsay Littlewood and Caroline Lund also organised a cocktail evening which raised £700 and Still Materials Handling Ltd held a charity football match and raised £675.
“We are overwhelmed by the generosity of people and are extremely grateful for their continued efforts and support.
“I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart who got involved in Phoebe’s appeal.”
Although the family have surpassed their target, they are still raising as much as they can for the other children at The Legacy Rainbow House.
If you would like to donate to Phoebe’s Appeal, visit www.justgiving.com/PhoebeKenyon.