Disabled boy from Selby in plea for new wheelchair

Nine-year-old Alex Mason, of Selby, has a rare muscle-degenerating condition which means he is now a full-time wheelchair user.

Through playing power chair football in Leeds, Alex has found a way to meet new people - but the sport has taken its toll on his chair and unless he receives a new one he will be forced to stop playing.

His family are working with national children’s charity Caudwell Children to raise the £4,500 needed to get him a new chair and keep him playing.

His mother Louise said there had been a remarkable difference in her son and said he would be “devastated” if he was unable to play.

“With his condition it is one of the only sports he can take part in and the change in him has been amazing,” she said.

“Being involved with the club has helped him get out of the house and meet new people, so it’s had a huge affect on his confidence.”

She added: “Alex was diagnosed just before he was five which is very young. Seeing Alex deteriorate has been really hard.

“From having a son who could run, draw and play to Alex not being able to walk or even brush his own teeth has been heart-breaking. The symptoms of his condition have accelerated a lot faster than other children; usually they are able to walk until their teens.

“Not being able to play powerchair football would be devastating for Alex, it’s something he really enjoys and it’s helped him get out and express himself. Seeing the changes in him in the last six months has been amazing, and he needs this chair to keep doing what he loves.”

For more information on Alex’s appeal and to donate visit www.justgiving.com/Alexander-M or text MASO60(£2) to 70070.