“We never imagined we would be in a position to need to ask for help like this”: Chesterfield parents appeal for help to fund specialist buggy for brave daughter, 4, diagnosed with rare condition

Sophie Pratt, four, of Chesterfield, has Rett Syndrome, a rare neurological condition that affects her ability to move, communicate and be independent, leaving her reliant on specialist equipment to safely experience the world around her.

Despite needing a specialist postural buggy to attend school and take part in family life, NHS wheelchair services do not fully fund what Sophie requires, leaving her family forced to bridge the gap themselves.

Now Sophie’s parents Samantha and Matthew Pratt have launched a Go Fund Me Page to raise £3,500 to fund the buggy for their daughter.

Samantha and Matthew said: “We never imagined we would be in a position to need to ask for help like this, but we are reaching out as a family for our incredible Sophie.

“A specialized buggy would make such a life-changing difference – providing comfort, proper support, and the ability for her to safely explore the world around her.

"It would help Sophie take part in family outings, attend school more comfortably, and simply experience more of life.”

Sophie was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome about a year ago, after her parents noticed that her development had stalled.

The rare neurological disorder, which affects one in 10,000 girls, impacts brain development and progresses over time, resulting in severe mental and physical disability.

But despite her health struggles, the four-year-old “lights up every room with smile and determination”.

Samantha Pratt, mum of two, said: “Every day comes with challenges, but Sophie faces them with a strength and courage that inspires us more than words can ever say.

"One thing that has stayed constant is our pride in her and the way she faces each one of these challenges in a way most adults couldn't.”

But Sophie’s progressing mobility issues are becoming increasingly challenging for her and her family.

Samantha and Matthew added: “As Sophie grows, mobility has become one of our biggest concerns.

“We are doing everything we can, but we cannot do this without help.

“If you are able to donate, no matter how small, it would mean everything to our family. And if you’re not in a position to give, simply sharing our story would help us more than you know.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read our story and for any support you can give. You are helping us give Sophie more comfort, more freedom, and more opportunities to experience the world.”

Currently there’s no cure for Rett Syndrome but the disorder, which is more likely to affect girls.