Alex is on the road to freedom

by Andy Passant, Evening Gazette
LITTLE Alex Waters has a whole world to explore after getting a new set of wheels.
The three-year-old from Stockton has cerebral palsy, which means he has limited mobility.
But thanks to a new specially adapted tricycle he can now get out and about more with his mum, dad and older brother.
Alex has been given an £800 tricycle by national charity Caudwell Children.
The charity provides direct donations of treatments, therapies and specialist equipment to sick and disabled children throughout the UK.
It is hoped the tricycle will help Alex with his muscle tone and development, as well as stimulating his movement.
Mum Jacqui and dad Ian, of Coombe Way, Hartburn, Stockton, said they hoped it would make a real difference to Alex.
Ian, 41, Alex’s full-time carer, said: “He can’t walk, he just shuffles about. He is registered partially sighted as well.
“He is totally dependent on us really at the moment.”
He said Alex recently underwent brain surgery at London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital to stop him having epileptic fits.
Ian said: “He had very severe epilepsy. We are hoping he won’t have any more fits.”
Alex, who has limited verbal communication skills, has enjoyed using a similar tricycle at his nursery in Thornaby.
But his only means of transport at home has been his buggy.
Ian said: “He can get a bit frustrated. He knows what he wants but he can’t express himself like a normal three-year-old.”
Now he will be able to enjoy the benefits at home with his own bike.
He will be able to get out more with his parents and eight-year-old brother James, who goes to Holy Trinity School in Hartburn.
Ian said: “This donation will mean Alex can be included in more family activities. We can get out and about as we all have bikes.
“When everyone else is riding their bikes he can get irritated and doesn’t like sitting around much, so this will get him out and about and moving again.
“He will hopefully end up being able to use his legs more.”
Specially designed, the equipment meets vital physiotherapy needs.
Making friends and being involved in outdoor activities also play a crucial part in a child’s self-esteem.
Trudi Beswick, chief executive officer for Caudwell Children, said “The tricycles play a vital role in the inclusion and development of the child in question.
“It is not easy for a youngster with a disability to feel fully accepted by their peers, but the tricycle is often a great booster to make and engage with friends.
“We would encourage any other families in the area in need of a similar donation to contact the team on 0845 3001348.”